The Sober Friends Podcast is a weekly show where you can listen to inspiring and honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and wellness. Hosted by Matt J who has been there and done that, this podcast is for anyone who wants to learn more about living a sober and fulfilling life. Whether you’re sober curious, in recovery, or just looking for some motivation and support, this podcast is for you. Tune in every week to hear from guests who share their stories, struggles, and successes on their sober journey. You’ll also get tips, resources, and advice on how to stay...
Tue, April 29, 2025
Send us a text "'Stop believing in me. I want you to believe in you.' In this powerful episode, we dive into one of recovery's most challenging concepts—finding a higher power. We share our personal spiritual journeys, discuss a thought-provoking reading about a loving, non-judgmental God, and explore how connection with nature and community can form the foundation of spirituality. Whether you're spiritual but not religious, questioning your beliefs, or simply curious about different perspectives on higher power, this conversation offers compassionate insights for your sobriety journey." Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 22, 2025
Send us a text In this powerful episode, we dive deep into one of recovery's most challenging yet transformative principles: acceptance. Why is it so difficult to accept people and situations as they are? From navigating frustrating family dinners to confronting career disappointments, we explore how our inability to accept "life on life's terms" often leads us back to destructive behaviors. Learn practical strategies for finding peace amid circumstances you can't control, managing expectations in relationships, and recognizing when the quest for justice becomes a pathway to resentment. Our candid conversation reveals how acceptance isn't passive resignation but an active practice that creates space for serenity. Whether you're in recovery or simply seeking more peace in your daily life, this episode offers wisdom on how letting go of control paradoxically gives you back your power. Join us for this honest, heartfelt discussion about accepting reality while still influencing positive change. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 08, 2025
Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt and Steve explore how kindness can be our secret weapon in recovery. In a world where social media algorithms reward outrage and division, they share personal stories about their journeys from being "reformed trolls" to discovering the lasting joy that comes from acts of kindness. Steve opens up about caring for his wife during health challenges, while Matt reflects on putting family needs before his own desires. Whether you're new to sobriety or years into recovery, this episode offers practical wisdom on how kindness to others helps quiet the noise in our own heads—and might just be the key to staying sober in divisive times. Listen for authentic conversation about finding purpose through serving others and the surprising ways recovery teaches us to be kinder, even when things aren't going our way. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 01, 2025
Send us a text In this candid episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, Matt opens up about his recent decision to start taking prescribed stimulant medication for his ADHD while maintaining his sobriety. He and Steve tackle the complex question many in recovery face: does taking prescribed medication break sobriety? Together, they explore the responsibility that comes with medication management in recovery, the importance of transparency with your support network, and how to balance necessary medical treatment while staying true to your recovery journey. This conversation provides valuable insights for anyone in recovery who may be struggling with mental health conditions requiring medication, offering practical advice on maintaining accountability and making informed decisions about your health while protecting your sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 25, 2025
Send us a text In this episode, Matt celebrates 11 years of sobriety coinciding with his daughter's birthday, while Steve shares his perspective on marking recovery milestones. The hosts discuss how anniversaries serve as powerful symbols of hope for newcomers while acknowledging that everyone commemorates their sobriety journey differently. They explore the importance of service in recovery, whether through sponsorship, offering rides to meetings, or simply being available to others who are struggling. Matt and Steve emphasize that while their recovery has been rooted in AA, they recognize and respect that there are multiple pathways to sobriety. The episode offers encouragement to listeners that recovery is possible, no matter where you are in your journey, and that the common goal—not the specific program—is what truly unites those in recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 18, 2025
Send us a text Join Steve and Matt as they dive deep into how self-pity and victim mentality can become energy drains in recovery. Steve vulnerably shares his current struggles at home and how he's navigating difficult emotions without turning to alcohol. The hosts explore how shifting from "Why is this happening to me?" to "What's my next step?" can transform recovery journeys. Learn practical strategies for managing expectations, connecting with your higher power, and finding community support when life feels overwhelming. Whether you're newly sober or an old-timer, this honest conversation offers valuable insights on conserving emotional energy and staying the course when life gets tough. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 11, 2025
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt, and Steve tackle a common challenge in recovery: maintaining sobriety while living with partners who still drink. Steve shares his personal journey of negotiating alcohol in the home with his non-alcoholic wife, offering practical insights on establishing boundaries through honest communication. They discuss various scenarios, from living with moderate drinkers to active alcoholics, emphasizing that recovery is possible in any circumstance with the right support system. Whether you're newly sober or years into recovery, this episode provides valuable strategies for navigating these delicate relationships without compromising your sobriety or creating unnecessary strain on your partnerships. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 04, 2025
Send us a text In this inspiring conversation, Katie Campbell, board-certified holistic health coach and founder of Mindful Constitution , shares her journey from binge drinking to sobriety and spiritual awakening. Katie opens up about childhood trauma, her years of self-medication, and the "cognitive dissonance" she experienced while studying health while still drinking. She explains how sobriety helped her discover her true purpose: guiding highly sensitive, empathic women through their own sober curious journeys. From hosting monthly sober curious circles to helping clients build lives they don't need to escape from, Katie demonstrates how removing alcohol doesn't mean deprivation—it means liberation. This episode explores the spiritual dimensions of recovery and how alignment with your authentic self creates ripple effects far beyond just not drinking. Katie on TikTok and Instagram Mindful Constitution Podcast Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 25, 2025
Send us a text In this powerful episode, elementary teacher and TikTok creator Colbi (@collect.the.similarities) shares her journey from using alcohol as a social lubricant to finding authentic belonging in recovery. She discusses how postpartum depression accelerated her drinking, the moment she received "the gift of desperation," and why she now uses social media to create solidarity among sober-curious women. Colbi offers profound insights on the difference between "fitting in" versus "belonging," and how sobriety has transformed her relationship with herself, her children, and her community. A must-listen for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol, especially parents navigating the challenges of modern life. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 18, 2025
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of Sober Friends, Matt and Steve engage in a candid conversation about spirituality in recovery following their experience at a Joe and Charlie Big Book study. They thoughtfully examine the suggestion that atheists cannot truly work the AA program, offering nuanced perspectives on what constitutes a "higher power." The discussion explores several important dimensions of recovery: Alternatives to traditional religious concepts of God in sobriety The role of nature and energy as potential higher powers How fellowship can serve as a power greater than oneself Personal experiences finding peace at the beach and during solo hikes The value of questioning beliefs while maintaining sobriety Balancing individual spiritual journeys with program fundamentals This episode provides valuable insights for anyone in recovery who is working to define their own spiritual path, whether they identify as religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, agnostic, or atheist. Matt and Steve demonstrate through their own experiences that recovery is accessible through various spiritual frameworks, emphasizing that what matters most is finding what works for you. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 11, 2025
Send us a text In this insightful episode of the Sober Friends podcast, hosts Steve and Matt explore the critical role of change in sustained sobriety and personal growth. Through candid discussion, they examine how resistance to change can impact recovery and why staying static often means sliding backward. The hosts share personal experiences about overcoming the fear of change, from career transitions to daily habits, while offering practical wisdom about taking manageable steps forward. This episode provides valuable perspectives on how the willingness to change—even when uncomfortable—becomes a cornerstone of lasting sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 04, 2025
Send us a text In this episode of The Sober Friends Podcast, Matt and Steve dive into the heart of what makes the 12-step program so impactful: the people who go above and beyond to help others, even when it's inconvenient. From late-night calls to long drives to meetings, these acts of service not only aid those in need but also enrich the lives of those who give. Matt and Steve also discuss the importance of having diverse voices on the show and put out a call for a regular female co-host. Tune in for heartfelt stories, listener questions, and a reminder that you're never alone on your journey to sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 28, 2025
Send us a text In this intimate conversation, the Sober Friends hosts dive deep into one of recovery's most challenging aspects: dealing with things beyond our control. Through personal stories about workplace anxiety, childhood trauma, and finding unexpected joy, they explore how fellowship, therapy, and individual solutions help navigate life's uncertainties. Whether you're wrestling with imposter syndrome, anxiety about the future, or searching for peace in sobriety, this episode offers practical insights and reminds listeners they're not alone in their journey. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 21, 2025
Send us a text In this powerful episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt and Steve dive deep into the critical connection between isolation and addiction. Through personal stories of drinking alone and social anxiety, they explore how isolation can both trigger addiction and become a destructive pattern in recovery. The hosts share their journeys from basement drinking to building meaningful connections through hiking groups and recovery meetings. This episode offers hope and practical strategies for those struggling to break free from isolation, especially in today's world of remote work and digital disconnection. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides valuable insights into the healing power of human connection. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 14, 2025
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of the Sober Friends podcast, Steve and Matt dive deep into the changing landscape of recovery programs and what makes an effective support group. The conversation stems from their recent experience with a "Joe and Charlie" study session, leading to an authentic discussion about the evolution of recovery programs over the decades. The hosts explore several compelling topics, including the contrast between historical and modern recovery success rates, the emergence of alternative programs like SMART Recovery, and what defines a truly effective support meeting. They share personal experiences about finding the right meeting environment, including an enlightening story about a Christmas shopping adventure that highlighted the importance of program-focused discussions. A particularly insightful segment covers how recovery tools become second nature over time, with the hosts discussing how they naturally implement these strategies in their daily lives - from managing social anxiety at a school concert to handling holiday stress. The episode also touches on the unique characters that make recovery meetings special, and how unlikely partnerships often lead to successful recovery journeys. Whether you're in recovery, curious about different sobriety programs, or interested in understanding how recovery meetings actually work, this episode offers valuable insights into the real-world application of recovery principles and the importance of finding the right support system. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 07, 2025
Send us a text Join Steve and Matt as they dive into the recent Surgeon General's warning about alcohol being a carcinogen, exploring what this means for both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. Drawing from personal experience and scientific insights, they discuss how younger generations are increasingly questioning alcohol use, the rise of mocktail culture, and why "moderate drinking" might not be as healthy as once believed. The hosts share candid observations about changing societal attitudes toward drinking, particularly among teens and young adults, while exploring how this public health warning could impact drinking culture over the coming decades. Listen in as they compare this moment to the evolution of cigarette warnings and their impact on smoking rates, offering thoughtful perspectives on what this could mean for future generations. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 31, 2024
Send us a text Join Matt as he shares a deeply personal exploration of what keeps his sobriety vibrant after 11 years. In this timely episode, released during the holiday season, Matt reveals how connecting with newly sober individuals continues to fuel his recovery journey. Through engaging storytelling and honest reflection, he discusses the unexpected ways social media platforms like TikTok have created new avenues for connection in the recovery community. Whether you're just beginning your sobriety journey or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining momentum and finding renewed purpose in recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 24, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, Matt opens up about his decision to return to Joe & Charlie Big Book study sessions—not to learn more about AA's foundational text, but to combat isolation in his recovery journey. As someone working from home with ADHD, Matt shares his struggles with maintaining connections and building friendships in sobriety, despite his success in digital spaces like TikTok and Bluesky. This episode explores the challenging balance between introversion and the vital need for human connection in recovery, offering hope and understanding to anyone feeling lonely during the holiday season. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 17, 2024
Send us a text In this candid and heartfelt episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, Steve and Matt dive deep into the challenges of maintaining long-term sobriety. They explore the subtle dangers of complacency, the importance of keeping recovery fresh, and how finding new perspectives can reinvigorate your journey. From Joe and Charlie workshops to unexpected sources of inspiration like TikTok, they share personal strategies for staying motivated, engaged, and committed to a sober lifestyle. Whether you're new to recovery or have years of sobriety under your belt, this episode offers valuable insights into keeping your recovery program dynamic and meaningful. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 10, 2024
Send us a text In this powerful episode of Sober Friends, Matt and Steve dive deep into the transformative role of social media in addiction recovery. Discover how platforms like TikTok and Blue Sky are revolutionizing the way people approach sobriety, offering unprecedented support, community, and hope for those struggling with alcohol addiction. Learn about the importance of compassion, meeting people where they are, and the potential for connection in the digital age of recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 03, 2024
Send us a text How much recovery work is 'enough'? In this candid episode, we dive deep into a common struggle many face in sobriety - the pressure to do more. From navigating the end of the 'pink cloud' phase to finding balance in service work, we explore why feeling like you're not doing enough might actually be a sign you're on the right path. Whether you're 209 days sober or 10 years in, this conversation about recovery perfectionism, guilt, and finding your own pace offers valuable insights for anyone on their sobriety journey. Plus, we discuss how social media is reshaping recovery communities and making sobriety more accessible to younger generations. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 26, 2024
Send us a text Join Matt, and Steve as they dive deep into one of recovery's most crucial warning signs - HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired). Through personal stories and real experiences, they explore how these seemingly simple states can create dangerous unguarded moments in sobriety. From dealing with family dynamics and feeling unappreciated to finding healthy coping strategies, this episode offers practical solutions for maintaining recovery during vulnerable times. Learn why breaking a shoelace might be just as challenging as life's bigger hurdles, and discover effective tools like exercise, meditation, and the power of reaching out to others. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 19, 2024
Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Sober Friends podcast, host Matt shares his deeply personal experience with Step 2 of Alcoholics Anonymous, tackling one of recovery's most challenging hurdles: connecting with a higher power. Whether you're new to sobriety, curious about AA, or a seasoned veteran in recovery, Matt's candid storytelling breaks down the misconceptions about spirituality in recovery and offers fresh perspectives on finding your own path. Key highlights include: Confronting the "God thing" in AA without religious pressure Creative alternatives to traditional concepts of a higher power Real talk about the challenges of early sobriety and meeting attendance Practical advice for working through Step 2 at your own pace How humility and openness become stepping stones to recovery Perfect for the sober curious, newcomers to AA, or anyone seeking understanding about the role of spirituality in addiction recovery. Matt's authentic approach and vulnerable sharing make this complex topic accessible and relatable for everyone, regardless of their religious or spiritual background. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 12, 2024
Send us a text When life feels overwhelming, where do we find the resilience to get through it? In this episode, Matt and Steve have an honest discussion about coping with stress, loss, and difficult news. They explore strategies like finding purpose, building community, and focusing on what's within your control. With empathy and real-life examples, they provide hope and practical advice for anyone struggling to maintain their sobriety or wellbeing during challenging times. Key Takeaways: Acknowledging the validity of your feelings, even if they don't match others' experiences Using coping mechanisms like exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature Cultivating a sense of purpose and looking for ways to be of service to others Leaning on your support network and recovery community Maintaining healthy routines and habits to provide stability This episode is perfect for listeners in recovery, as well as anyone seeking guidance on building resilience and finding joy even in the midst of life's storms. With thoughtful discussion and relatable stories, Matt and Steve offer a compassionate roadmap for weathering challenges. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 05, 2024
Send us a text Anger and resentment can feel like a never-ending battle, especially for those in recovery. In this raw and relatable conversation, hosts Matt and Steve dive deep into their personal struggles with these challenging emotions. From childhood trauma to strained relationships, they share how anger has impacted their lives and sobriety. Discover strategies they've learned through therapy, the 12 steps, and outside resources to manage these powerful feelings. Hear about those "ah-ha" moments that shifted their perspectives, as well as the setbacks they continue to face. Whether you're grappling with your own anger demons or supporting a loved one, this episode offers hope and practical advice for finding more peace. Don't miss this honest discussion about a topic that's all too common, yet often stigmatized. Tune in to learn how Matt and Steve are working to reclaim their power and rebuild the relationships that matter most. Your own journey with anger and resentment may just find validation here. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 29, 2024
Send us a text Looking for deeper connections in recovery? Join Steve and Matt as they explore the transformative power of recovery retreats. From intimate 35-person gatherings to step-focused weekends, discover how these getaways offer more than just a break from daily life. Learn why investing in a retreat might be exactly what your recovery needs, whether you're newly sober or years into your journey. Steve shares his recent retreat experience, including a powerful revelation about anger and emotions, while Matt reflects on how retreats helped him early in sobriety. This episode demystifies recovery retreats and shows how they can strengthen your program through fellowship, structured discussion, and meaningful connections with others serious about their recovery. Perfect for anyone curious about taking their recovery to the next level or seeking deeper connections in the program. #recovery #sobriety #AAretreat #fellowship #soberpodcast #recoveryjourney #soberlife Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 22, 2024
Send us a text Are you questioning your relationship with alcohol but thinking "I haven't lost everything yet"? In this raw and revealing episode, we dive into what it really means to be a "high bottom" alcoholic in today's world. Matt shares his personal struggle with Step One, challenging the traditional "rock bottom" narrative from the 1930s Big Book. From the exhausting mental gymnastics of "just one drink" to the profound revelation that unmanageability isn't always about losing homes or jobs – sometimes it's the quiet chaos in your head that's the real wake-up call. Key moments in this episode: The eye-opening story of a family gathering that became a battlefield of "should I drink?" decisions Why comparing your story to others might be keeping you stuck The unexpected conversation with a well-heeled woman that changed everything What unmanageability really looks like when you still have the house, the job, and the family Whether you identify as a "high bottom" drinker or you're just questioning your relationship with alcohol, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be powerless over alcohol in today's world. You don't have to wait until you lose it all to make a change. 🎧 First episode in our special series exploring the 12 Steps through a modern lens. #SoberLife #Recovery #HighBottom #12Steps #SoberFriends #RecoveryPodcast #SoberCurious Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 15, 2024
Send us a text Are you stuck in survival mode, always waiting for that "one thing" to make you happy? In this raw and insightful episode, Matt shares a powerful revelation from an AA meeting that struck him "square between the eyes." Discover how the constant struggle to just get by can fuel addiction, and learn how embracing vulnerability and asking for help can transform mere survival into true thriving. Whether you're newly sober or years into recovery, this episode offers a fresh perspective on breaking free from the survival mindset and building a life of purpose and fulfillment. Tune in for practical tips on silencing negative self-talk, finding value beyond external measures, and unlocking your potential to not just survive, but truly thrive in sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 08, 2024
Send us a text Join us for an illuminating conversation with Tricia Lewis, host of the Recovery Happy Hour podcast and advocate for inclusive sobriety. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of recovery, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be "alcoholic" and exploring the diverse paths to sobriety in today's world. Tricia shares her personal journey and insights on: Why you don't need to hit "rock bottom" to choose sobriety The role of non-alcoholic beverages in recovery Navigating trauma and mental health in sobriety Breaking free from rigid recovery labels The importance of finding your own path while staying connected to community Whether you're sober curious, in recovery, or just interested in understanding modern approaches to sobriety, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on creating a life beyond alcohol. Discover why sobriety isn't just about survival—it's about learning to thrive. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 01, 2024
Send us a text In this raw and honest episode, Matt and Steve dive deep into the challenging journey of self-forgiveness and building self-worth in recovery. They explore how the weight of past mistakes can fuel addiction and hinder progress, sharing personal stories of their own struggles and triumphs. Discover practical strategies for letting go of guilt, embracing patience in personal growth, and finding self-esteem through "estimable acts." Whether you're new to sobriety or years into your journey, this episode offers valuable insights on: Overcoming imposter syndrome and feelings of inadequacy The power of making amends and owning your past Finding balance between self-improvement and self-acceptance How to build self-esteem through small, meaningful actions Join Matt and Steve for this powerful discussion on transforming self-doubt into self-compassion – an essential step in maintaining long-term sobriety and living a fulfilling life in recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 24, 2024
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into a compelling New York Times article that challenges how we view obesity—is it a disease or just a symptom of a larger issue? This sparks a broader conversation about alcoholism and addiction. Could it be that, like obesity, alcoholism is merely masking deeper, underlying problems? Join Matt and Steve as they explore their personal journeys with recovery and weight loss, drawing fascinating parallels between the two. They discuss the struggles of overcoming addiction, whether to alcohol or food, and how societal perceptions might be missing the mark. Is it time to rethink how we approach recovery and treatment? Whether you’re navigating your own path to recovery or simply curious about a new way to think about addiction, this episode is sure to spark some insightful reflections. Plus, don’t miss the link to the original article for a deeper dive into this eye-opening perspective! Click here to link to the New York Times Article Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction by Judith Grisel Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 10, 2024
Send us a text Are you feeling stuck in your recovery journey, seeing the same faces and hearing the same stories over and over again? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive deep into the rut that many of us experience and how stepping out of your comfort zone can reignite your passion for sobriety. Join Matt as he shares his recent experience as a speaker at a virtual newcomer’s meeting, where the fresh energy and diverse voices revitalized his commitment to service. We also explore the value of switching up your routine, from virtual meetings with international participants to intimate small group gatherings, and the unexpected ways these can help combat that feeling of disconnection. Whether you’re struggling with motivation or just curious about how others are keeping things fresh, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you reconnect with your recovery. Tune in, and let’s rediscover the joy of the journey together! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 03, 2024
Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, we dive into the deep end of social anxiety and imposter syndrome—two common struggles that many of us face, especially on our sober journeys. Join us as we share personal stories of navigating awkward social situations, feeling like outsiders, and the challenge of finding our place in new communities. Whether it’s at a kid’s soccer game or a fancy dinner party, we’ve all experienced those moments of not fitting in. But what do we do when these feelings become overwhelming, and how can we learn to cope without turning to alcohol? We’ll also explore the surprising connections between social anxiety and drinking in isolation, and share practical strategies for building connections, one person at a time. Plus, a heartfelt shoutout to our amazing listener who bought us a coffee and shared how our podcast helps them stay positive on their sober path. If you’re struggling with social anxiety, or just want to hear some relatable stories and tips on staying true to your sober self, this episode is for you. Join us, connect, and remember—you belong here. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 27, 2024
Send us a text In this deeply personal episode, we dive into the striking parallels between food indulgence and the battles of addiction. It all started with a simple craving for greasy food that spiraled into a night of severe discomfort and unexpected reflection. Join us as we explore how one small slip-up triggered memories of past struggles with alcohol, leading to a profound conversation about recovery, self-destruction, and the daily battles to maintain sobriety. Whether it’s greasy food or alcohol, sometimes the things we enjoy the most are the ones we must learn to live without. This episode is a candid look at why we fall into destructive patterns, how we pick ourselves back up, and the vital importance of sharing our stories along the way. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 20, 2024
Send us a text The fourth and fifth steps can cause a lot of fear when we first come into a twelve step group. For me, they were liberating. We discuss why the fourth and fifth steps are so important. This is not a how to, this is why they are great steps, how they help you learn more about yourself and why you drink and help you understand how to stay away from the bottle. The fifth step helps you build trust and to have a deep conversation with an another alcoholic about your defects and how you have similarities. What was your experience with the fourth and fifth steps? Let us know at matt@soberfriendspod.com and on instagram @soberfriendspod. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 13, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, we dive deep into the world of sobriety among well-known public figures. From presidents to Hollywood stars, many famous faces have openly battled addiction, offering both inspiration and complex reflections on the struggle with substance abuse. Steve and I explore what it means to see these celebrities maintain sobriety, how it resonates with those of us in recovery, and whether their stories bring hope or highlight the harsh realities of this relentless disease. Join us as we discuss the triumphs and trials of living a sober life, no matter the resources at hand. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 06, 2024
Send us a text I love this episode and its so far in the back of the catalogue, you may not have seen it, especially if you are a new listener. I got the privilege of interviewing William Schaberg, author of the book, "Writing the Big Book." To me, it's the definitive history of the period when Bill write the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Here is what we discuss: The genesis of the why he wrote the book Bill W’s realization of why a book was written Bill W’s original plan to help alcoholics recover Hank Pankhurst - the founder that drank and how there would be no Big Book without him The Oxford Group - how the originals got sober Bill Schaberg’s controversial take on who should be on the AA Mount Rushmore Check out Bill Schaberg's site writingthebigbook.com where you can pick up his book, Writing the Big Book . Learn more about Hank Parkhurst at hankparkhurst.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 06, 2024
Send us a text You get both of these amazing episodes in one day! If you have not listened to my excellent interview with William Schaberg, then you are in luck today! If you have, you'll love going over this again! I hope you consider buying his book, "Writing the Big Book," which I will link in the notes. You'll be blown away by Bill's insight. In Part 2 of the interview with Bill Schaberg, we discuss: What really happened when Ebby Thatcher visited Bill Wilson (The Kitchen Table Story) The problem with most AA history The many stories Bill told on how the steps were written Who really wrote, “To Wives,” and the urban legends about this chapter Hank Parkhurt’s role in writing the Big Book and his later resentment of Bill Wilson Check out Bill Schaberg's site writingthebigbook.com where you can pick up his book, Writing the Big Book . Learn more about Hank Parkhurst at hankparkhurst.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 30, 2024
Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, Matt dives deep into the often challenging topic of faith and spirituality in recovery. Reflecting on his personal struggles with the concept of a higher power, Matt shares his experiences and doubts, from growing up in a Catholic household to grappling with the notion of an afterlife. He explores the conflicts many face when reconciling scientific reasoning with spiritual beliefs, especially within the context of sobriety and 12-step programs. Join us as Matt candidly discusses the feelings of envy towards those with strong faith, the fear of vulnerability in giving control over to a higher power, and the desire for a more concrete understanding of the divine. Whether you're religious, agnostic, or just curious, this episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of belief, doubt, and the quest for meaning in a sober life. Tune in to connect with Matt's journey and share your own experiences and insights on faith in sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 23, 2024
Send us a text I struggle with what I can't control. If things are not going my way and I have no control over it, it can cause me great stress. That's when I think of the serenity prayer and try to learn from it's wisdom. In this episode, we discuss those things we think we'd control much better and learn when to let go. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 16, 2024
Send us a text Join Steve and Matt in this enlightening episode as they delve into the transformative power of peace, serenity, and mindfulness. They discuss the importance of recognizing the universe working in our favor and the profound impact of the 11th Step Prayer, also known as the Prayer of Saint Francis. Steve shares his personal journey of navigating sobriety, the challenges of maintaining a spiritual practice, and the benefits of incorporating prayer and meditation into daily routines. Discover how these practices, alongside mindful exercise, can help cultivate inner peace and improve overall well-being. Whether you're struggling with personal challenges or seeking ways to enhance your spiritual life, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for creating a more centered and harmonious existence. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 09, 2024
Send us a text Summer is a time we get out of the house and start socializing. For those of us without the alcohol crutch, how do you survive? We talk about it on this week's episode. Having a 12 step group is helpful because you have a group of people you know. Even if you don't belong to a fellowship, you can learn some tricks to stay sober and happy! Have a plan Leave if you have to Take two cars Bring your own drinks We talk about how to survive socializing without booze this week. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 02, 2024
Send us a text In this eye-opening episode we delve into the inspiring origins of Dry July, where three friends’ commitment to sobriety sparked a global movement for health and cancer support. Join us as we explore the profound benefits of pausing alcohol consumption—not just for our bodies but for our minds, wallets, and communities. From a mental health renaissance to economic elevation, discover the transformative impact a dry month can have on every facet of life. Whether you’re seeking better health, questioning your drinking habits, or simply curious about this charitable cause, this episode is your invitation to a journey of clarity, charity, and change. Tune in and find out why Dry July is more than a personal challenge—it’s a collective stride towards a healthier society. Call to Action: Ready to raise your glass of water in solidarity? Listen now and join the Dry July movement—one day at a time. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 25, 2024
Send us a text What is service work in recovery? It's doing a task or a job that helps support others getting sober. In a meeting, it can be as small as putting chairs away to making coffee. It can be more involved like being a GSR at District, working at Area or GSO or volunteering for committees. In the end, it's doing the job that supports others getting sober. Steve and I are experienced with all kinds of service work and we hope you'll learn a little more about this important part of recovery and maybe even share your own experience. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 18, 2024
Send us a text Our family of origin can be a cause of stress in recovery. That's the case for me. I've had to deal with an unexpected situation around my family of origin this week and I needed my higher power to help me through it. I shared this stress in a way I hope helps you. In this episode, we get vulnerable and discuss how the past can show up in the present and how to deal with it. Steve helps me out in not developing new resentments and how to manage stressful situations with the family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 11, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, we delve into the profound yet practical philosophy of “Take the Next Right Action.” This simple mantra holds a world of meaning, especially for those on the journey of recovery. It’s about the courage to confront the challenging tasks we’d rather avoid, the selfless acts of kindness that elevate others at the expense of our own comfort, and the quiet heroism in extending a hand to those who are wrestling with their own battles. For many, recovery is not just a path to personal healing, but a road paved with opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. “Doing the next right thing” isn’t about grand gestures; it’s found in the everyday choices that, while they may seem small, create ripples of positive change. Whether it’s choosing honesty over convenience, service over self-indulgence, or hope over despair, these decisions shape the journey of recovery and reflect the heart of this podcast. Join us as we explore stories of resilience and generosity, and discuss how embracing this mindset can transform not only individual lives but also weave a tapestry of communal support and understanding. Together, we’ll learn that sometimes, the hardest choices are the most rewarding, and helping someone struggling might just be the next right thing for you. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 04, 2024
Send us a text Relapse is common in sober communities. Can chronic relapse be disruptive to the group? If it is, how should it be addressed? We talk about chronic relapsers and how their presence can actually enhance the sobriety of those who continue with their recovery journey and how they should be treated with empathy. We discuss some who relapsed for decades, only to finally find continuous sobriety. We also discuss how to address anyone in a recovery community who is disruptive. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 28, 2024
Send us a text With summer coming up, it's a great time to talk about the third promise. Lots from the past give us cause to pause, but we should not regret it but learn from it. Matt and Steve talk about the past, the harms caused and how to learn from them to make sobriety even better. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 21, 2024
Send us a text I thought everything would be perfect once we stopped drinking? WRONG! Life still happens. The difference is that you don't have to drink over it and have new tools to get you through the things that happen in life. This week, Matt had a whole bunch of things happen and I'm sure in 6 months they will be forgotten. But today, they stink. Has this happened to you? Do you struggle with life on life's terms? Then this show is for you! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 14, 2024
Send us a text Join us for an insightful journey as we delve into the nuances of relapse triggers and celebrate wellness milestones! Today, we're opening up about the daunting specter of relapse triggers, sharing personal experiences, and unveiling strategies to fortify your sobriety armor. But before we dive in, catch up on a candid health update from Matt and how embracing a CPAP machine has been a game-changer in reclaiming restful nights and newfound vitality. As we pivot to the heart of our discussion, brace yourself for a raw exploration of relapse fears and the resilience of sobriety. Unpack the realness of stress as a silent saboteur, its insidious allure, and the battle-tested tactics to reclaim inner peace. From yoga's blissful embrace to the transformative power of prayer, uncover an arsenal of coping mechanisms to navigate life's tumultuous waves. Plus, delve into the pivotal role of community support, the profound impact of therapy, and the unyielding commitment to prioritize mental well-being. Reflect on the poignant moments of resistance, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a life untethered by addiction. Tune in for an episode brimming with vulnerability, triumph, and the unwavering resolve to embrace each day with renewed strength and purpose. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation that's as heartwarming as it is enlightening! Article sourced. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 07, 2024
Send us a text You ever wonder why the old timer with 30 years of sobriety still reads the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous over and over and over again? Didn't they have reading comprehension and could get it the first time? We talk about it this week and discuss how we treat the Big Book of AA as a text book and something to aways learn from. And we discuss how re-reading helps the new guy or gal. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 30, 2024
Send us a text Change is so hard. I've heard of people saying they love change. I've also heard of people stop drinking after their beverage was only half drunk. I could never understand either. In this episode, we talk about change, why it's hard and how we got through it through our program of recovery. Are you someone who has challenges with change? We have lots of tools for you in this engaging episode. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 23, 2024
Send us a text Join us on the Super Friends podcast as we dive deep into creating a sober lifestyle and what that truly means. Steve and our host, Matt, open up about their personal experiences, struggles, and victories on this challenging yet rewarding journey. Matt shares his recent encounters with Tim, who expressed his concern about John's sleep apnea issues and the impact on his well-being. With the hectic schedule of his kids' sports activities and work commitments, finding time for AA meetings has become increasingly difficult. Despite not feeling the urge to drink, Matt realizes he's overextended and in need of a plan to maintain his sobriety. Steve highlights the necessity of putting in the work and the importance of flexibility in adapting to life's demands while maintaining a sober lifestyle. He shares personal anecdotes and offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of this journey. Together, they stress the significance of reaching out to others, building a support network, and staying vigilant even when things seem manageable. They emphasize the need for constant self-improvement and the incorporation of sobriety into every aspect of life. In a heartwarming story, Steve recounts a recent encounter at a hot dog stand that beautifully illustrates the transformation he's undergone, thanks to his commitment to sobriety. It's proof that the program not only changes one's life but also instills a desire to help others. Tune in and learn from their experiences as they navigate the path to a fulfilling, sober lifestyle. Don't miss this powerful episode filled with inspiration, insight, and a touch of humor. Listen now on the Super Friends podcast! 🎧 #SoberLife #SelfImprovement #SupportNetwork Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 16, 2024
Send us a text Join us on the Sober Friends podcast for an insightful discussion about the challenges of maintaining health and wellness on the journey to recovery. In this episode, we dive into the frustrations of dealing with sleep apnea, the temptation of instant relief, and the importance of patience in finding solutions. From struggling with impatience to navigating relationships with food, our hosts share personal experiences and valuable insights on overcoming obstacles. Discover how taking proactive steps towards health can be a transformative journey, and learn practical strategies for managing frustrations along the way. Tune in for a candid conversation about embracing the process of self-care and finding comfort in one's own skin amidst life's challenges. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 09, 2024
Send us a text Join us as we delve into a candid conversation about navigating the intricate web of PTSD, food struggles, and alcoholism. In this episode, Matt shares his journey, unveiling how unrecognized PTSD intertwined with his battles with food and alcohol. From therapy revelations to weight loss endeavors, we explore the common threads linking these struggles and how they intersect with addiction behaviors. Discover insights into the parallels between alcoholism and food addiction, challenging self-talk patterns, and the quest for sustainable wellness. Whether you're grappling with similar battles or seeking to understand the intricate dynamics of addiction, this episode offers valuable perspectives and paths toward healing. Dive deep into the shared experiences of sobriety, self-discovery, and breaking free from the cycles that bind us. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 02, 2024
Send us a text Join us for a deeply introspective episode as Matt shares his journey of self-discovery and vulnerability. Fresh out of a therapy session, Matt delves into a candid conversation about unintentional hurts, self-awareness, and the challenges of opening up. From workplace dynamics to personal walls built from past experiences, Matt and Steve explore the complexities of human connection and growth. Tune in for a raw and relatable discussion on the path to understanding oneself and embracing authenticity. Whether you're seeking solace, insights, or simply a shared experience, this episode offers valuable reflections on navigating relationships, both with others and with oneself. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 26, 2024
Send us a text 🌟 Join us as we mark a special occasion—March 21st, a day etched in significance for our host, Matt, who proudly shares his achievement of a decade of sobriety. But beyond personal triumphs, we explore why these anniversaries resonate deeply within the recovery community. 🕊️ With each passing year, every sober milestone becomes a beacon of hope, a testament to resilience, and a source of inspiration for those navigating their own paths to sobriety. From the pivotal five-year mark, where the odds tip in favor of lasting recovery, to the cherished double-digit milestones, each anniversary symbolizes a victory over adversity. 🤝 Yet, as our discussion unfolds, we realize that these anniversaries are not merely about individual accomplishments. They serve as beacons of hope, guiding newcomers through the tumultuous waters of addiction towards the shores of sobriety. Matt shares how his journey from self-reflection to selflessness mirrors the essence of recovery—a journey not just for oneself but for the betterment of others. 🎙️ Tune in as we reflect on the significance of sharing our stories, from humble beginnings to the lofty heights of celebrity, showcasing that the path to recovery knows no bounds. From Anthony Hopkins to Dax Shepard, their journeys remind us that addiction does not discriminate and that every voice, no matter how famous or ordinary, carries the power to inspire and uplift. 💪 Join us as we navigate the complexities of sobriety, one anniversary at a time, reaffirming the enduring message that recovery is not just about staying sober—it's about embracing life's challenges with courage, humility, and unwavering determination. 🎧 Listen now to this insightful episode and discover the beauty of sobriety anniversaries—a celebration of strength, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 19, 2024
Send us a text Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the common question that many in recovery face: "Am I doing enough?" Matt shares a recent conversation with a friend who questioned his efforts in recovery, sparking a deep exploration into what it means to truly be "doing enough." With personal anecdotes and reflections, we navigate the complexities of self-doubt and comparison within the recovery journey. In this candid conversation, we explore the fundamental question: What does it mean to be sober? Through personal experiences and insights, we uncover the layers of doubt that often cloud our perception of progress in recovery. From the pressure to attend multiple meetings a week to the essence of finding balance between self-care and service, we challenge the notion of "doing enough" in recovery. Discover the power of self-reflection and understanding as we navigate the intricate balance between personal growth and community involvement. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned member of the recovery community, this episode offers valuable insights into the journey of self-discovery and finding fulfillment in sobriety. Tune in as we unravel the complexities of recovery and uncover the true meaning of "doing enough." Join us on this journey of self-discovery, reflection, and empowerment as we navigate the path to a fulfilling life in recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 12, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, Steve and Matt delve into the insidious grip of fear and its impact on their lives. Reflecting on recent experiences, they candidly discuss the repercussions of allowing fear to dictate their actions, from missed opportunities to strained relationships. The conversation unfolds as they share personal anecdotes, from Steve's reluctance to take a day off to Matt's travel anxieties. Their exchange underscores a universal truth: fear can manifest in myriad forms, from economic insecurity to the fear of failure. As they navigate the complexities of fear, they unveil its close ties to control and comfort zones, revealing how fear-driven reactions can lead to unintended consequences. Through introspection and vulnerability, Steve and Matt unpack the destructive cycle of fear and its correlation with addictive behaviors. They candidly explore how fear often masquerades as anger, causing rifts in relationships and perpetuating harmful patterns. Yet, amidst the challenges, they find solace in the power of acknowledgment and self-awareness. By confronting their fears head-on, they pave the way for growth and resilience. Their conversation serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that liberation from fear is attainable through courage and introspection. Tune in as Steve and Matt embark on a journey of self-discovery, challenging listeners to confront their own fears and embrace the transformative journey toward healing and wholeness. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 05, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, we delve into the insidious grip of fear and its impact on their lives. Reflecting on recent experiences, they candidly discuss the repercussions of allowing fear to dictate their actions, from missed opportunities to strained relationships. The conversation unfolds as they share personal anecdotes, from Steve's reluctance to take a day off to Matt's travel anxieties. Their exchange underscores a universal truth: fear can manifest in myriad forms, from economic insecurity to the fear of failure. As they navigate the complexities of fear, they unveil its close ties to control and comfort zones, revealing how fear-driven reactions can lead to unintended consequences. Through introspection and vulnerability, Steve and Matt unpack the destructive cycle of fear and its correlation with addictive behaviors. They candidly explore how fear often masquerades as anger, causing rifts in relationships and perpetuating harmful patterns. Yet, amidst the challenges, they find solace in the power of acknowledgment and self-awareness. By confronting their fears head-on, they pave the way for growth and resilience. Their conversation serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that liberation from fear is attainable through courage and introspection. Check out as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, challenging listeners to confront their own fears and embrace the transformative journey toward healing and wholeness. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 20, 2024
Send us a text Join us in a candid discussion as we delve into the intricate dynamics of anonymity in recovery. From the deeply ingrained principles of programs like AA to the personal journeys of individuals, we explore the nuances of who to confide in and when. In this episode, Steve shares his early experiences, shrouded in secrecy and fear of judgment, juxtaposed against his present-day openness and authenticity. Matt reflects on the delicate balance of disclosure, from sharing out of necessity to gauging potential reactions from loved ones. Discover how navigating anonymity evolves over time, impacting relationships, work environments, and personal growth. From encounters with alcohol-laden acquaintances to unexpected connections in virtual spaces, learn how embracing vulnerability can lead to profound connections and newfound support systems. Join us as we unravel the complexities of anonymity and redefine what it means to share our recovery journeys with the world. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 13, 2024
Send us a text In this compelling episode, we delve into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact they have on our lives. Join us as we explore a therapy session where breakthroughs were made, revealing the deep-seated struggles of growing up in challenging environments. From feeling alone amidst a bustling family to coping mechanisms like alcohol, our guest shares candidly about their journey. Through poignant anecdotes and reflections, we uncover the profound effects of familial relationships and the quest for understanding and healing. Tune in as we navigate the emotional terrain of family of origin and discover the resilience found in facing our past. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 06, 2024
Send us a text In this candid episode, We delve into the often overlooked challenges faced by individuals in recovery when confronted with medical issues and surgeries. Steve shares his recent experience with hernia surgery and the unexpected pain that followed. The conversation explores the gray area surrounding pain medication in recovery, acknowledging the real struggles some may face. The hosts discuss strategies for safely managing prescribed pain meds, emphasizing the importance of open communication with healthcare professionals. Join them as they share personal stories, reflections, and insights on balancing health, sobriety, and the potential pitfalls in the recovery journey. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating a crucial aspect of the healing process. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 30, 2024
Send us a text Join us in this raw and insightful episode as we dive into the world of emotions, sobriety, and the challenges of navigating life's big feelings. Our talk on vulnerability sparks a discussion on how individuals with addiction issues often struggle with handling their emotions. From workplace anxiety to the fear of failure, we explore the impact of emotional struggles and how it relates to our journeys in recovery. The episode delves into the challenge of dealing with perfectionism, impostor syndrome, and the constant need for self-improvement. Matt's recent career shift becomes a focal point as he grapples with anxiety and the fear of disappointing others. Tune in for an authentic conversation on the highs and lows of dealing with big feelings, finding balance in life, and the ongoing journey of personal growth. If you've ever struggled with emotions or are curious about the intersection of sobriety and mental well-being, this episode is a must-listen. Discover practical insights, share a few laughs, and gain inspiration for your own emotional journey. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 23, 2024
Send us a text In this episode, Matt and Steve discuss how character defects, such as fear, dishonesty, jealousy, and being transactional, can lead to problems in our relationships and our lives, and how they can trigger us to drink or use drugs. They share their personal stories and insights from working the 12 steps of AA, and how they learned to identify and overcome their character defects. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 16, 2024
Send us a text Is AA all about following the straight and narrow, or is there room for nuance in recovery? This week, Steve and I break free from the black and white thinking that can trap us in sobriety. We tackle the "one drink = start over" dogma, explore the beauty of personal choice, and celebrate the power of tools over rigid rules. Buckle up for a thought-provoking discussion about finding your own path and making recovery work for you, not the other way around. Highlights: Black & white vs. grey: Rethinking the "all or nothing" mentality in AA. One-drink slips: Should a minor misstep erase your entire journey? Picking your tools: Using the program as a toolbox, not a straitjacket. Attraction, not promotion: Embracing diversity and individual paths to sobriety. Learning from everyone: Accepting different experiences and finding inspiration in unique journeys. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 09, 2024
Send us a text Join us in this insightful episode where we unpack the challenges and strategies surrounding Dry January. Matt and Steve share personal anecdotes and reflections on their own relationships with specific types of alcohol, the triggers that led them to eliminate certain beverages, and the psychological aspects of cravings versus the mental obsession with alcohol. Engage with their candid conversation about the early days of sobriety, navigating the transition, and recognizing the difference between physical cravings and the mental urge to drink. Drawing from their experiences and lessons learned from Alcoholics Anonymous, they shed light on practical coping mechanisms to tackle cravings during Dry January. From indulging in sweets as a temporary substitute to channeling energy into physical activities like running or exercise, discover effective ways to divert attention away from the desire to drink. The power of community support is highlighted, emphasizing the significance of having a network of individuals who understand and empathize with the struggles of sobriety. Explore the role of accountability partners, friends, or apps like the Dry January app in creating a sense of companionship and shared commitment, crucial for successfully navigating the challenges of abstaining from alcohol. For those venturing into Dry January or seeking support in their journey towards sobriety, this episode offers invaluable insights, practical tips, and encouragement. Whether it's finding solace in exercise, leaning on a supportive community, or exploring alternatives to curb cravings, discover effective strategies to embrace a month of abstinence and beyond. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of cravings, coping mechanisms, and the strength derived from a supportive community while embarking on the transformative journey of Dry January. Join the conversation and share your experiences using #DryJanuaryReflections. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us for more resources and discussions on our platform. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 02, 2024
Send us a text Feeling bloated after the holidays? Ready to hit the reset button on your health and habits? Then join us as we dive headfirst into Dry January: the global phenomenon that's not just about giving up booze, but about rediscovering your relationship with alcohol and taking charge of your well-being. In this episode, you'll: Uncover the surprising origins of Dry January: From a solo running challenge to a global movement, we explore the inspiring story behind this annual reset. Get the facts on the benefits: Discover how a month without alcohol can positively impact your physical and mental health, from better sleep and clearer skin to sharper focus and improved mood. Learn tips for success: Whether you're a seasoned abstainer or a Dry January newbie, we'll share practical strategies to navigate social situations, stay motivated, and make the most of your alcohol-free month. So, whether you're curious about Dry January, already committed, or just looking for a healthier way of life, this episode is for you. Tune in and get ready to raise a glass (of sparkling water, of course!) to a happier, healthier you. Don't forget to: Follow us on social media for Dry January inspiration and support! Leave a review and let us know what you think! This episode promises to be informative, engaging, and packed with motivation to help you make the most of your Dry January (or any dry month you choose!). Resources: Washington Post: If ‘dry’ January sounds daunting, try ‘damp’ January instead Washington Post: The benefits of ‘Dry January’ last longer than a month, studies show Alcohol Change UK Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, December 29, 2023
Send us a text In the final episode of Decoding the Big Book, we explore how Bill Wilson, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, wrote the final chapter of the Big Book, the basic text of the AA program. We learn about the challenges he faced, the influences he received, and the message he delivered. We also hear his powerful words of hope and encouragement for the alcoholic who still suffers. Join us as we discover how Bill Wilson envisioned a global fellowship of recovering alcoholics who would help each other stay sober and find a new way of life. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 26, 2023
Send us a text In this gripping episode, join Matt and Steve as they delve into the profound world of speaker meetings within Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Steve recounts his recent experience speaking at a detox center, unraveling the chaos, challenges, and invaluable moments of connection that transpired. Discover the underlying reasons why individuals engage in public speaking within the AA community and how it plays a pivotal role in their recovery journey. Steve passionately shares the dual purpose behind his speaking engagements, reflecting on the program's emphasis on reaching out to those grappling with alcoholism. The discussion delves into the raw realities of detox centers, shedding light on the critical medical and emotional support required during this vulnerable stage of recovery. Moreover, they explore the nuances of honesty and trust within the recovery process, drawing from personal experiences and interactions with newcomers. Unraveling the layers of self-deception and the initial steps toward truthfulness, this candid conversation offers insights into the complexities of rebuilding trust, both internally and within relationships. Join the conversation as they highlight the significance of fellowship, support, and the profound impact of sharing personal stories in fostering hope and healing for those navigating the tumultuous journey toward sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Fri, December 22, 2023
Send us a text Join us for an eye-opening journey into the hidden history of Alcoholics Anonymous and the untold story of Hank Parkhurst, the unsung hero of AA's foundational text. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing revelation that challenges the widely held belief of Bill Wilson as the sole author of the iconic Big Book. While Bill Wilson often publicly acknowledged the collective efforts of AA members in composing the book, our exploration uncovers a different truth. Contrary to popular belief, Bill Wilson wasn't the exclusive author of every chapter. Discover the pivotal role played by Hank Parkhurst, Bill's right-hand man and a driving force during the book's creation. Despite his significant contributions, Hank's legacy has been overshadowed, even erased from AA history due to a tragic relapse into alcoholism shortly after the book's publication. With insights from William Schaberg and Matt, we unravel Hank Parkhurst's background—a successful businessman with a visionary mindset, recognized as a forgotten co-founder due to his subsequent struggles with alcohol. Explore the pivotal chapter he penned addressing employers, shedding light on alcoholism as an illness and advocating for the rehabilitation of alcoholic employees. Dive deep into the chapter's compelling arguments, where Hank utilizes his business acumen to articulate the financial benefits of supporting alcoholic employees and challenges prevalent misconceptions about alcoholism in the workplace. Uncover anecdotes and powerful statements Hank used to persuade employers to view alcoholism through a lens of compassion rather than condemnation. Join us as we illuminate Hank Parkhurst's vital yet overlooked role in shaping AA's history and explore the significant impact of his contributions to the Big Book. This episode sheds light on a forgotten figure whose influence was integral to the foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous and whose story deserves recognition. Tune in to this revealing episode as we bring to the forefront the untold narrative of Hank Parkhurst, the forgotten co-author whose legacy continues to resonate within AA's history. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 19, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, Matt and Steve share their personal stories of how they struggled with comparing themselves to other alcoholics, both in and out of the program. They discuss how this comparison can keep you from accepting your reality and your potential, and how to overcome it by identifying with your own journey of recovery. They also talk about the importance of finding support groups that can help you work through your challenges and celebrate your successes. Whether you are a high-bottom or a low-bottom alcoholic, this episode will inspire you to embrace your own path to recovery and stop judging yourself or others. Tune in and join the conversation! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, December 15, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. The episode delves into the myths and realities surrounding the authorship of the renowned "Big Book" of Alcoholics Anonymous. Contrary to popular belief, it wasn't collectively written by the first 100 members; rather, Bill Wilson was the sole author, except for minimal input provided by Hank Parker. Bill, despite frustration at the lack of feedback, perpetuated the myth of collective authorship to highlight the solution as a result of shared experiences rather than one person's journey. He also aimed to downplay his leadership role to prevent ego inflation and possibly called the movement the "BW movement" once. The discussion then shifts to the Family afterward chapter, where Bill discusses the family's role in a recovering alcoholic's life. He highlights the importance of family members meeting with tolerance, understanding, and love, warning against the demand for concessions. Furthermore, the chapter addresses challenges the family might face, including dealing with past escapades, handling economic concerns, and the newfound religious faith of the recovering alcoholic. Bill advocates for patience, understanding, and acceptance within the family while cautioning against potential pitfalls. The chapter concludes with a story emphasizing the importance of prioritizing a recovering person's sobriety, suggesting that failure to do so may lead to unfortunate consequences, even relapse. Overall, the episode explores the dynamics between recovery, family roles, and the challenges faced by both the recovering individual and their family members. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 12, 2023
Send us a text In this compelling episode, Matt and Steve delve deep into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of Alcoholics Anonymous—its financial landscape. Together, they unravel the intricate threads of financial operations within AA, shedding light on the challenges, traditions, and potential transformations faced by the organization. The conversation kicks off by addressing the significant deficit plaguing the General Service Organization (GSO) of AA. With a staggering $1 million deficit, the hosts dissect the implications of this shortfall, emphasizing the reliance on literature sales as a primary source of revenue rather than donations. Venturing into the heart of the matter, they dissect the AA Seventh Tradition, exploring the intersection of spirituality and financial support within the program. They probe the importance of donations, the rewards they offer, and the need for potential shifts in the revenue-generating structure. Matt and Steve pivot to examine the hesitance towards change within AA's established business model, a structure rooted in the traditions of the past. Reflecting on the difficulty of implementing changes in a slow-moving, consensus-driven organization, they highlight the challenges of adapting a business model crafted nearly a century ago to fit the contemporary landscape. The discussion widens to consider digital advancements and the potential role they could play in AA's financial sustainability. Drawing parallels to modern media and subscription-based models, they underscore the significance of a digital presence and revenue stream, juxtaposing it against AA's current digital outreach strategies. The hosts contemplate the complexities of AA's strict policies on external contributions, referencing the poignant story of Jim Irsay's donation offer of the original AA manuscript and its rejection due to financial limitations and tradition. They further examine the limitations on individual contributions capped at $5,000 and the reliance on group contributions. Matt and Steve dissect the financial implications for attendees, highlighting how the collective impact of small donations can accumulate, mirroring the price of attending meetings. They discuss the varied financial capacities of different meetings, illustrating how some may be more financially stable than others. Tune in to this thought-provoking discussion shedding light on the intricate financial intricacies within Alcoholics Anonymous, offering insights into the delicate balance between tradition and adaptability in the realm of recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober
Bonus · Fri, December 08, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. Discover the intriguing story behind the creation of "Two Wives," attributed to Bill Wilson despite common misconceptions. Understand the tensions between Bill and his wife, Lois Wilson, regarding the chapter's content and its portrayal of women supporting their husbands through recovery. Explore Bill's rationale for maintaining a consistent writing style and his insistence on an alcoholic author's perspective in defining the condition. Uncover the subtleties in Bill's depiction of alcoholism's impact on families, particularly spouses, and the nuances of emotional stability in the early stages of recovery. Examine the evolution in defining alcoholism, shifting from drinker types to the pivotal emphasis on willingness to stop—a cornerstone in the AA recovery program, reiterated in the appendix's essentiality of willingness for recovery. Despite the dated tone and perceived gender roles in "Two Wives," unpack the two significant points that emerged—Bill's defining of alcoholism and the focus on willingness as central to recovery. Understand the belief that the book, Alcoholics Anonymous, remained the sole solution for those afflicted and their partners in the absence of other options in 1938. Join us as we explore the intricate layers of history and biases within the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous in this enlightening episode. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 05, 2023
Send us a text How does service affect sobriety? Why do I have to make coffee, or return the tables and chairs? What difference does it make? Service in sobriety is important because it helps spread the message that recovery is possible and there are all kinds of things big and small you can do to help the next sick and suffering alcholic. It's something as small as greeting someone at the door to volunteering to handle the books at an area level. We talk on this podcast about why service is so important. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, December 01, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. In this compelling episode, we unravel the backstory before the 12 steps were formulated and how Bill's four years of helping other alcoholics shaped AA's foundational principles. Bill's relentless dedication, even during his shaky moments, led to a chance encounter that changed the course of history. Join us as we dissect Bill's sales approach, where helping another alcoholic became the linchpin of his sobriety. Discover how Bill's experience influenced his strategic tactics, from understanding prospects to navigating the delicate art of intervention. His insight into the mental twist that leads to the first drink provides a gripping narrative of overcoming personal struggles. We'll explore Bill's compelling argument that sharing one's own path to recovery, without zealotry, holds the key to capturing a prospect's attention. His emphasis on finding common ground, irrespective of religious beliefs, offers a timeless lesson in compassionate outreach. Unveiling Bill's step-by-step guide to engaging with a prospect, we'll discuss the intricate balance between passion for reform and conveying personal experiences. We'll shed light on Bill's cautionary tales, urging sobriety champions to tell their stories in relatable terms, avoiding pitfalls that hinder effective communication. Tune in as we transport you to a time when Alcoholics Anonymous was in its infancy, revealing how Bill's unwavering commitment to helping others revolutionized the approach to addiction recovery. Explore the nuances of empathy, guidance, and hope that continue to shape countless lives today. Join us on this illuminating journey into the heart of Bill Wilson's mission, showcasing how one man's struggle transformed into a beacon of hope for millions battling addiction worldwide. Listen and discover the power of connection, empathy, and selling the promise of sobriety through genuine human experiences. This is a story of resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief that helping others leads to personal salvation. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 28, 2023
Send us a text In this compelling episode, we unravel the complexities of addressing a friend's potential drinking problem. Matt's friend reached out recently to ask what to do when you think you have a friend with a problem. Steve and Matt discuss this situation and their own personal experience with this topic and 12 step calls. If you have a loved one with a problem and are not sure what to do, this is the show for you. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, November 24, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. In today's episode, we unravel the transformative Step Five and its pivotal role in your journey to sobriety. Discover the unvarnished truth about the necessity of Step Five, and how its omission could be the downfall of your recovery. Bill W.'s words are a powerful reminder that honesty is the cornerstone of lasting change. But that's not all. We'll guide you through the intricate path of Steps Six and Seven, examining the pivotal moment when you must ask yourself if you're truly willing to let go of your character defects. Then, join us in understanding the art of making amends, from small gestures of goodwill to the challenging road of facing your past head-on. Bill Wilson's profound wisdom will inspire you to take the steps required to mend your relationships and rebuild your life. Don't miss the powerful insights on Step Ten, which encourages you to take daily inventory and maintain your newfound serenity. Find out how these steps can lead you to a position of neutrality towards alcohol, where the obsession is removed entirely. But the journey doesn't end there. Step Eleven beckons you to explore prayer and meditation, setting you on a path to a deeper connection with your spiritual self. We'll unravel the intricacies of this step, bridging the gap between AA traditions and the Oxford Group's "Quiet Time" practices. As we wrap up this episode, stay tuned for a glimpse into the vital Step Twelve and the profound impact of your faith in action. Discover the importance of having a spiritual experience and the evolution of Bill W.'s teachings throughout the creation of the Big Book. Join us on this enlightening journey through the Big Book, where the wisdom of Bill W. continues to inspire and guide those on the path to recovery. If you're seeking lasting change, this episode is a must-listen. So, hit that play button and let's decode the steps together! You can learn more at William Schaberg's website. writingthebigbook.com William Schaberg's You Tube Channel Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 21, 2023
Send us a text In this episode of Sober Podcast, I talk to Angela Pugh, the founder and host of Addiction Unlimited Podcast , a nationally ranked podcast that offers coaching strategies and guest interviews on how to live sober and happy. Angela shares her own story of recovery, specifically how she took the unconventional step of having a male sponsor, one of the biggest no-no's in AA. She has been sober since January 7th, 2006, and she has helped thousands of people over the years to understand recovery and create easy plans to get from drunk to sober. This is a very inspiring and informative conversation that you don’t want to miss. Tune in and learn from Angela’s wisdom and experience. You can find Angela at angelapugh.com. Angela Pugh on social media: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Pintrest Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, November 17, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. Join us in this insightful episode as we delve deep into the heart of recovery with "How It Works" in Alcoholics Anonymous. In the chronicles of book writing, "How It Works" was penned towards the end of the process, making it the culmination of wisdom gained through countless experiences. In this revealing podcast, we'll uncover the profound significance of "How It Works" and the revered 12 Steps in the journey of recovery. Step by step, we'll explore the transformative power of these principles, and how they can guide individuals toward a life free from addiction. Discover the stories behind the chapters, and learn how the process of writing this life-changing text mirrored the very journey it outlines. We'll discuss the interplay of self-discovery, healing, and community within the 12 Steps, providing a roadmap for those seeking a path to sobriety. Whether you're new to AA or a seasoned member, this episode will illuminate the path to recovery and help you better understand the core principles that have changed countless lives. Tune in and let's explore "How It Works" together on this captivating journey toward healing and hope. Comfortable Mystery 4 and Luminous Rain - Film Noire by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100535 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100169 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Prelude No. 5 and Prelude No. 20 by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://chriszabriskie.com/preludes/ Artist: http://chriszabriskie.com/ In Motion by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations abo
Tue, November 14, 2023
Send us a text Vulnerability involves trust. If you are going to be vulnerable with your emotions, you have to trust someone won't take advantage of them. I've always found it important to be honest with my own emotions and share them with someone else. This is the way I keep my own emotions in check and keep them in balance so I ward off the first drink. In today's episode, I share a lot about my own personal situation at work and at home and my deadly fear associated with money. In my own struggle, I hope you can find something to identify with so that this can bring you your own peace. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, November 10, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of recovery with Chapter Four: We Agnostics. Discover why Bill chose the title "We Agnostics" and how it reflects his inclusive approach to spirituality. Half of the fellowship were once strangers to religious experiences, just like many of us. Bill's timeless wisdom reminds us that, even in the 21st century, AA members have embraced diverse views of a higher power, making sobriety accessible to all. Discover the inspiring story of Fitz Mayo, a man who hit rock bottom but found redemption through a powerful spiritual experience. It's a tale that will touch your soul and remind you of the incredible transformations that belief can bring. Join us on this thought-provoking journey through "We Agnostics," where faith, science, and the human spirit converge in the quest for recovery. Whether you're a seasoned AA member or just starting your journey, this episode offers insights and inspiration you won't want to miss. Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. You can learn more at William Schaberg's website. writingthebigbook.com William Schaberg's You Tube Channel In Motion by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/ Industrial Music Box, Luminous Rain, Hidden Agenda, Comfortable Mystery 4 - Film Noire by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100812 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100169 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200102 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100535 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Rain by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. <a href='https://creativecommons.or
Tue, November 07, 2023
Send us a text Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, where we delve into the future of addiction treatment and recovery. We're here to discuss an astonishing development - a potential game-changer in the fight against addiction. This episode is proudly sponsored by our friend Pete B., who understands the significance of our message and bought us five coffees. Thank you, Pete! Your support means the world to us. If you share Pete's belief in the importance of our podcast, head over to buymeacoffee.com/soberfriendspod and show your support. Give what you feel you've gained from our show, and let's keep this vital conversation going. Science may have stumbled upon a potential antidote to addiction, and it goes by the name of Soma Semaglutide, commonly known as Ozempic. Ozempic, originally developed as a miracle drug for diabetes and weight loss, has shown some fascinating potential in other areas. Not only does it assist in controlling cravings and obsessions, but it also offers hope in curbing problem drinking. We're referencing an intriguing article from The Atlantic , aptly titled "Scientists Accidentally Invent an Anti-Addiction Drug," which we'll link to for those interested in further reading. So, what does this groundbreaking development mean for those in recovery? Can a single shot truly prevent problem drinking? Steve shares his insights on this discovery, emphasizing the importance of not jumping to conclusions just yet. While the potential is promising, we are still far from fully understanding the drug's effects. It's essential to remember that recovery isn't solely about removing the physical aspects of addiction. The inner work, emotional growth, and transformation are equally crucial. Will this miracle drug inadvertently encourage people to search for an "easier, softer way"? Matt highlights the drug's potential to help individuals who are on the brink of full-blown alcoholism, providing a barrier to crossing that line. It's a fascinating concept, and we ponder the possibility of integrating this drug into a comprehensive recovery program. Could Ozempic be a lifeline for newcomers, giving them a much-needed runway to work on their recovery? We explore this notion as we weigh the promise of this drug against the potential risks. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to <a href='https://soberfriend
Bonus · Fri, November 03, 2023
Send us a text Join us as we unravel the wisdom from the pages of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, chapter by chapter. In this episode, we explore the profound insights of Bill Wilson, the co-founder of AA, and his conviction that self-knowledge and willpower alone cannot conquer alcoholism. We'll take you on a journey through tales of those who thought they had it all under control, only to find themselves trapped in the clutches of alcohol once again. The gripping story of a man who stayed sober for 25 years, only to succumb to the allure of that first drink, will leave you pondering the power of addiction. So, if you're seeking insight, inspiration, and a path to sobriety, don't miss this thought-provoking installment of "Decoding the Big Book." Tune in now and discover the keys to lasting freedom from alcoholism. Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. You can learn more at William Schaberg's website and YouTube channel Sneaky Snooper and In Motion by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/ Harlequin, Hidden Agenda, Industrial Music Box, Faceoff, Grave Matters and Luminous Rain by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100635 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100812 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200102 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100403 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100215 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100169 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Prelude No. 20
Tue, October 31, 2023
Send us a text In this captivating episode, we're diving headfirst into the world of recovery, where gifts of sobriety and the power of paying it forward take center stage. Join us as Steve and Matt share their heartfelt stories and experiences, revealing why helping newcomers is more than just a duty; it's a profound journey of transformation. First, we explore the ripple effect of reaching out to the newcomer in recovery. Steve and Matt discuss the importance of modeling positive behavior and creating a welcoming atmosphere in meetings. They delve into the idea that helping newcomers can extend far beyond the individual, potentially impacting hundreds of lives down the road. It's a reminder that every small act of kindness can have a monumental effect. The conversation takes an inspiring turn as they reflect on the incredible gifts of sobriety they've received. Steve opens up about the priceless moments he's experienced in his family relationships, thanks to his commitment to sobriety. Sam shares how a simple phone call with his son and grandkids became a cherished gift made possible by his journey in recovery. Their stories underscore the profound transformation that comes from embracing sobriety. As the episode unfolds, you'll discover the true essence of paying it forward. The hosts discuss the fulfillment of helping others and how it extends beyond sobriety into everyday life. They emphasize the significance of even the smallest gestures, likening it to the heartwarming concept of "paying it forward" at a coffee shop. In this context, the act of helping others is nothing short of life-saving. Join us on this powerful journey as we explore the unbreakable bonds formed in recovery and the immeasurable impact of reaching out to newcomers. Discover the joy of paying it forward, making a difference in someone's life, and leaving a lasting mark on the world. Steve and Matt's heartfelt stories and insights will inspire you to be the change you wish to see, one act of kindness at a time. So, whether you're in recovery, supporting someone on their journey, or simply seeking inspiration for a brighter world, don't miss this compelling episode that reminds us all of the incredible potential within every one of us to make a difference and change lives for the better. Tune in now and let your heart be touched by the extraordinary power of sobriety, community, and paying it forward. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking
Bonus · Fri, October 27, 2023
Send us a text In this installment, we unravel the mysteries of "There Is a Solution," the second chapter of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, authored by none other than Bill Wilson himself. Bill explores the inner workings of the alcoholic's mind and reveals that the real problem lies in our thinking, especially in that critical moment just before taking that fateful first drink. Could it be a form of temporary insanity? Bill certainly thinks so. But fear not, dear listeners, for there is hope! Bill lays out a roadmap to recovery, one that includes self-searching, humbling our pride, and facing our sins head-on. It may not sound easy, but as Bill explains, it's the path to freedom from the grips of alcoholism. Join us as we uncover the purpose behind this chapter, which is to answer the age-old question: "How and why do we recover from the hopeless condition of alcoholism?" Bill challenges us to identify as one of two kinds of drinkers: the moderate, "take it or leave it" type, and the heavy drinker who can't seem to stop, even when faced with health problems. But for the real alcoholic, Bill's words hit home. Whether you're on a journey to recovery or simply seeking to understand the human spirit, Bill Wilson's insights will leave you inspired and eager to explore the road to a better life. Tune in now and let the journey begin! Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. You can learn more at William Schaberg's website and Youtube Channel Sneaky Snooper by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Prelude No. 5 by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 Source: http://chriszabriskie.com/preludes/ Artist: http://chriszabriskie.com/ Operating System (Sting) by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/ At The Shore - The Dark Contenent, Industrial Music Box , Harlequin by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. <a href='https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Tue, October 24, 2023
Send us a text Join us for an eye-opening episode as we delve into the intricacies of trust, vulnerability, and the journey to recovery. Discover the story of a friend who faced a trust issue that might seem small on the surface but carries profound lessons. We explore the question: What drives someone to betray trust, and what does it reveal about their own insecurities? We share insights into navigating trust in business and personal relationships, shedding light on how vulnerability plays a crucial role. Our discussion takes us back to our drinking days and active addiction, where trust issues often ran deep. We reveal how our past struggles with deception and self-sufficiency impacted our ability to trust others. But recovery is all about growth, and we've come a long way. We share how working with fellow alcoholics has helped us build trust and resilience. The anonymity and traditions in recovery provide guardrails for navigating trust while still opening ourselves up to healing connections. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that encourages you to embrace vulnerability, take risks, and ultimately find trust in yourself and others. Tune in and join the conversation on trust and recovery! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Fri, October 20, 2023
Send us a text Discover the purpose behind Bill Wilson's words and the evolution of his own recovery narrative. Did you know that Bill had to rewrite his own story several times? We'll uncover the reasons behind these revisions and the key moments that shaped his path to sobriety. Explore the turning point in Bill's life as he meets Ebby Thatcher, a moment that resonates with countless recovering alcoholics. Discover how Ebby's words, "Why don't you choose your own conception of God?" opened doors to a more flexible approach to spirituality within the 12-step program. We'll also delve into the mystery surrounding the origins of the phrase, "God as I understood Him." As we journey through Bill's story, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the powerful message of hope and recovery that the Big Book carries. Join us as we decode the Big Book chapter by chapter, uncovering the truths, myths, and transformative moments that have guided countless individuals on their own paths to recovery. So, whether you're a seasoned AA member or simply curious about the history and wisdom contained within the Big Book, join us on this captivating exploration of sobriety, spirituality, and the enduring legacy of Alcoholics Anonymous. Tune in now and be inspired by the incredible stories and insights that have transformed lives for generations. Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. You can learn more at William Schaberg's website. writingthebigbook.com William Schaberg's You Tube Channel And Awaken - Stings , Dark Star, Harlequin, Hidden Agenda by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200102 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100635 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100534 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100331 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Sneaky Snooper, In Motion by Audionautix is license
Tue, October 17, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, we're diving deep into the toolbox of coping mechanisms for those tough days we all encounter. From attending meetings to embracing vulnerability and practicing meditation, our hosts share their strategies for navigating the stormy seas of life without turning to anger or frustration. Listen as we recount the power of sharing in recovery meetings and how sometimes, the most unexpected voices can provide the most valuable insights. We emphasize the importance of redefining success and lowering the bar when needed, reminding us that just staying sober is a triumph. Discover the value of empathy and understanding, especially when faced with situations that challenge your patience. Learn how to say no when necessary and avoid letting others' actions affect your emotional well-being. Join us as we explore the concept of non-God AA and delve into the world of recovery for those who don't resonate with the idea of a higher power. It's a thought-provoking topic that opens the door to a broader conversation about different paths to sobriety. And don't forget to share your thoughts and reviews with us! Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to provide support and insights to our listeners. Stay strong, stay sober, and tune in for more next week! 🌟 #CopingStrategies #RecoveryJourney #NonGodAA Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, October 13, 2023
Send us a text 🎙️ Dive into the fascinating world of addiction recovery with "Decoding the Big Book" on the Sober Friends podcast! 📚 Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the pivotal text, "The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous." In this special limited series, we explore each chapter's context and history, followed by a captivating reading from the fourth edition. 👨⚕️ Discover the significance of the "Doctor's Opinion" section, where a medical expert validates the book's groundbreaking solutions. Delve into the mysterious changes between the first edition and later versions, such as Dr. Silkworth's anonymous signature and the switch from Arabic to Roman numerals. 🔍 Uncover the enigmatic reasons behind these alterations. Did they aim to distance medical expertise from personal experiences? Or was it a strategic move to avoid endorsements and uphold AA's integrity? 📖 Learn how the "Doctor's Opinion" sets the foundation for the 12 Steps, bridging the gap between morality and medical science. Explore the pivotal role of spirituality in the recovery process and how Bill Wilson's encounter with Dr. Bob transformed the program. Join us in unraveling the rich history, secrets, and mysteries of the Big Book. Tune in and embark on a journey of understanding, recovery, and inspiration. Don't miss out on this engaging and insightful exploration of one of the most influential texts in addiction recovery! 🌟 Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. You can learn more at William Schaberg's website. writingthebigbook.com William Schaberg's You Tube Channel Operating System (Sting) by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/ Luminous Rain, Awaiting Return - Atlantean Twilight, Harlequin, At The Shore - The Dark Contenent by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100770 Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100635 Source: <a href='http://incomp
Tue, October 10, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, Matt and Steve uncover the untold stories of managing ADHD, the quest for relief, and the unexpected connection between sensory overload and sobriety. Matt shares his journey of self-discovery, where he grapples with his ADHD diagnosis and the realizations that follow. From hearing difficulties in noisy environments to the constant struggle for focus, Matt's candid revelations shed light on the daily challenges many face while navigating life with ADHD. Steve joins the conversation, offering his own insights into managing ADHD and how it often leads to self-medicating with alcohol. They emphasize the importance of seeking professional help and the critical role therapy plays in managing these complex issues. But it doesn't stop there. They also discusses the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, sharing their experiences with medications and the potential pitfalls of addictive treatments. As they explore the need for therapy and healing, Matt and Steve open up about their personal journeys and the ongoing battle to maintain mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're on a similar path or simply seeking understanding, this episode will leave you with profound insights and a newfound appreciation for the power of self-care and honest communication. Join them as they unveil the hidden struggles that many face in silence and discover the path to healing and recovery. Don't miss this engaging and thought-provoking conversation! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Fri, October 06, 2023
Send us a text Decoding the Big Book, is sourced from "Writing the Big Book, by William Schaberg. We highly recommend this book. Click here to purchase the book on Amazon. 🎙️ Dive into the history and essence of Alcoholics Anonymous with "Decoding the Big Book," a captivating limited series of the Sober Friends podcast! 📖 In each episode, we unlock the secrets of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, chapter by chapter, providing you with the backstory and context that makes this iconic work so powerful. 🕵️♂️ In the first episode, we unravel the mysteries of the book's forward, the cornerstone of the Big Book. Learn how it all began, why it was delayed, and the quest for a famous endorser like Henry Ford. Discover the profound impact of the forward in setting the tone for AA's mission. Join us as we journey through AA's history, mission, and purpose, and gain insights into how this remarkable program has transformed countless lives. 🌟 Whether you're in recovery, curious about AA, or just seeking inspiration, "Decoding the Big Book" is your guide to understanding the heart and soul of Alcoholics Anonymous. Tune in and embark on a transformative journey of hope and healing. 🎧 #SoberFriends #BigBookDecoded #RecoveryJourney You can learn more at William Schaberg's website. writingthebigbook.com William Schaberg's You Tube Channel Operating System (Sting) by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/ At The Shore - The Dark Contenent by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100770 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Sneaky Snooper by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/ Harlequin by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http:/
Tue, October 03, 2023
Send us a text Join Steve and Matt in this candid episode where they share personal stories of overcoming fear, embracing risks, and breaking free from the shackles of survival. They reflect on their past decisions driven by fear of failure, missed opportunities, and the impact of alcohol on their lives. From navigating challenging academic experiences to pursuing unexpected career paths, they discuss how false confidence often led to setbacks. Matt talks about sticking with broadcasting despite early doubts, and Steve reflects on the career choices he made out of fear. Through their stories, Steve and Matt emphasize the importance of real confidence, vulnerability, and seeking help when needed. They explore the role of childhood trauma and how it contributed to their survival mindset, hindering them from reaching their true potential. Despite the challenges they faced, they highlight that it's never too late to start a journey of recovery and self-discovery. They encourage listeners to break free from the cycle of fear and survival and embrace the possibilities of growth and transformation. Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover how you can overcome fear, learn from failure, and begin your own path to recovery and personal growth. Don't wait to start living your best life! 🌟 #OvercomingFear #PersonalGrowth #RecoveryJourney Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Bonus · Mon, October 02, 2023
Send us a text Are you ready to unlock the secrets of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous? 📘 Join us on "Decoding the Big Book," a limited series that breaks down the cornerstone of the AA program. Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned veteran in recovery, we've got you covered! 🎙️ Tune in every Friday on the Sober Friends feed, and let's embark on the journey to sobriety together. 🚀 #DecodingTheBigBook #SobrietyJourney Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 26, 2023
Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Power Podcast, Matt and Steve have a discussion on sober curiosity, and how it can help people who are not sure if they have a problem with alcohol. They also talk about the difference between high bottom and low bottom drunks, and how their own experiences of hitting bottom led them to seek recovery. They share their insights on how to explain alcoholism to someone who doesn’t understand it, and how to deal with the cravings and triggers that come with addiction. They also talk about the importance of having a program that works for you, and how to stay sober in a drinking culture. This episode is full of practical and personal advice from two guys who have been there and done that. Whether you are sober, sober curious, or just curious about sobriety, you will find something valuable and inspiring in this conversation. Listen now and discover your sober power! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 19, 2023
Send us a text Join us for an enlightening episode featuring Tim Westbrook, the remarkable CEO of Camelback Recovery and the host of the "I Love Being Sober" podcast. In this candid conversation, we explore the profound transformations that occur when addiction gives way to recovery. Tim and Matt dive into the world of podcasting and discuss how the power of recording conversations can lead to more impactful exchanges. They share their own journeys into podcasting and offer valuable insights for aspiring podcasters. Discover why Tim's story is a beacon of hope for those curious about sobriety. From his initial quest to get his life back to the extraordinary success of Camelback Recovery, his path showcases the incredible possibilities of a life free from addiction. Tim also sheds light on the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding recovery. By openly discussing his journey and embracing sobriety, he encourages others to seek help and find their own path to happiness and fulfillment. Whether you're sober-curious, on your own recovery journey, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode offers invaluable wisdom and motivation. Join us as we unmask the power of sobriety and share stories of transformation. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 12, 2023
Send us a text Step into a world where candid conversations lead to self-discovery and triumphs. In this episode, we unravel the intricate dance between worries, anxieties, and the exhilaration of embracing life's opportunities. Join us as Matt and Steve, open up about their personal journeys through challenges, change, and growth. From the unexpecteds financial curveballs that can make us catch our breath, to the demands of parenting and supporting our children's passions, this episode is a roller coaster of relatable experiences. Matt shares the real anxieties of parenting, balancing finances, and supporting a child's dreams. Meanwhile, Steve recounts tales of corporate upheavals and the "imposter syndrome" that can creep in even when success is achieved. As they delve into their pasts, you'll hear echoes of your own worries and triumphs. Are you a parent caught in the whirlwind of funding your child's dreams? Or maybe you're navigating a shifting career landscape, just as Matt and Steve have. Whether you're on the road to recovery or simply seeking inspiration, this episode delivers relatable stories that resonate. Tune in to discover how they've conquered their worries, the power of seeking support from fellow alcoholics, and the lessons learned from embracing the unknown. Join Matt and Steve as they provide a candid, engaging, and often humorous exploration of life's ups and downs. After all, it's not the worries that define us, but the resilience and growth that follow. If you're ready to feel understood, motivated, and uplifted, this episode is your ticket to navigating life's twists with wisdom, humor, and the unwavering belief that triumphs await on the other side. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 05, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, Matt and Steve welcome Madeline Forest, the host of The Happiest Sober Podcast. Madeline is a sober woman from Canada who shares her story of growing up with a sober mom. Madeline's mother at 21 and never looked back, she also had a dad who relapsed and was absent from her life. Madeline explains how alcohol became a source of anxiety and shame for her, even though she never hit a rock bottom or faced external consequences. She also reveals how she faced her fears of telling people about her decision to quit drinking and how she found support and inspiration from sober Instagram accounts, books, her mom, and a virtual support group called The Luckiest Club. Madeline is an inspiring guest who has a lot of wisdom and insights to offer. Tune in to hear her tips on how to stay sober, how to deal with cravings, and how to have fun without alcohol. You don’t want to miss this episode! Happiestsober.com Madeline on IG - @happiestsober Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 29, 2023
Send us a text 🎙️ Get ready for an emotionally charged episode that explores the depths of self-doubt, comparison, and the pursuit of happiness. In this episode, Matt and Steve share their personal struggles with sobriety, self-image, and the relentless quest for perfection. In this candid conversation, Matt and Steve reflect on those moments when they felt like an outsider looking in, questioning why others seem to have it all together while they grapples with their own insecurities. It's a narrative that echoes in the hearts of many, reminding us that we're not alone in our inner battles. Discover the power of self-awareness as Matt and Steve navigate through the maze of self-doubt, ultimately arriving at a place of self-compassion. They delve into the complexities of self-acceptance, where happiness isn't defined by external factors but becomes an inside job. Steve talks his journey takes us from the gym to the hiking trail, revealing the profound impact of physical health on mental well-being. It's a reminder to prioritize not just our appearance but our interior health, fostering a sense of vitality and strength. But the twists don't stop there. Tune in as they recount a harrowing moment when a valuable possession almost slipped away, unraveling the threads of panic and self-blame. The story serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes, it's not about what we lose but how we learn from it. In a heartwarming twist, Steve and Matt share valuable insights on what they would do if they encountered a person sharing too long in a meeting. Their wisdom and compassion shine through, demonstrating the power of community and support in times of vulnerability. Join us on this rollercoaster of emotions and self-discovery, where the pursuit of happiness takes center stage. It's an episode that reminds us that our journey is uniquely our own, and through the storms of self-doubt, we can emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to embrace the imperfect beauty of life. 🌟💪🏞️ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 22, 2023
Send us a text Dive into an inspiring and transformative journey as Ben Tuff of the movie, " Swim Tuff, How I Swam My Way Out of the Bottle ," shares his story of battling addiction and emerging victorious through open water swims. In this captivating podcast episode, we explore Ben's struggle with alcoholism, his path to sobriety, and the unexpected but profound role that open water swimming played in his recovery. Matt and Steve sit down with Ben Tuff to delve into his compelling narrative. From hitting rock bottom to finding hope through rehabilitation, Ben opens up about his early days of sobriety. Join them as they discuss the significance of sponsors and the turning point that pushed Ben to conquer his fear of swimming, eventually leading him to triathlons and open water challenges. Ben's determination and resilience shine as he recounts the arduous yet rewarding journey of training and participating in various open water swims, including the awe-inspiring Narragansett Bay swim. You'll hear about the struggles, the pain, and the unyielding commitment that led Ben to achieve remarkable feats. Discover how the challenges Ben faced in sobriety mirror the challenges he embraced during his open water swims. Uncover the deep connection between pushing physical boundaries and facing life's obstacles head-on. The hosts and guest delve into themes of perseverance, pain, joy, and the profound realization that embracing both the highs and lows of life is essential for growth. As Ben Tuff shares his personal insights, you will be moved by the power of transformation and the importance of embracing adversity. Join the conversation as they explore how breaking down stigmas around addiction and mental health can reshape our understanding of recovery and inspire countless individuals seeking their own triumph over adversity. Tune in to this episode as it unearths the remarkable parallels between conquering addiction and conquering open water, leaving listeners with a newfound appreciation for life's challenges and the strength within each of us to overcome them. Key Takeaways: Uncover the journey of recovery from addiction to sobriety, guided by sponsors and resilience. Explore the unexpected role of open water swimming in personal transformation. Gain insights into the connection between pushing physical boundaries and facing life's challenges. Reflect on the power of embracing adversity and the value of the pain-joy dynamic. Break down stigmas around addiction, mental health, and the potential for change. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ben Tuff that reminds us that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and that the triumph of the human spirit knows no bounds. Check out Ben's website: <a href='htt
Tue, August 15, 2023
Send us a text This podcast episode is about the difficulty of getting sober and the great things that come with it. The first few days and weeks of sobriety can be very tough, but it’s worth it. One of the great things about sobriety is that you can end up with a best friend who is so different than you because the one thing that you have in common is that sobriety, peace. And that being the only thing and there’s like a whole bunch of other things. The episode also talks about how to get through those first few days and weeks in the month, and how to find great topics for your next episode. It also touches on how being sober can lead to quality family time and waking up feeling free from worrying about feeling bad from drinking. The episode also discusses how being sober can lead to comfort with emotions and being present for others in difficult times. If you’re struggling with alcohol or know someone who is, this episode is for you! 😊 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 08, 2023
Send us a text Are you looking for a candid and relatable podcast about recovery from alcohol addiction? If so, you will love this episode of Matt and Steve’s show, where they talk about the pros and cons of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a 12-step program that has helped them and millions of others stay sober. They discuss the benefits of AA, such as finding a fellowship of supportive peers, working the steps, and having a sponsor. They also address some of the drawbacks and challenges of AA, such as the God issue, the big book thumpers, and the cult-like atmosphere. They share their personal stories, struggles, and insights from their journey of recovery. They also talk about how the pandemic has changed AA, with the rise of online meetings and new ways to connect with other alcoholics. Whether you are new to AA, a long-time member, or somewhere in between, you will find this episode helpful and inspiring. Listen in and join Matt and Steve on their journey of recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 01, 2023
Send us a text In this podcast episode, Matt and Steve learn more about Megan Webb, co-host of Not Drinking Today, formerly She's Sober Sydney and her journey to becoming a certified This Naked Mind coach and how she helps others to achieve their sobriety goals. Megan talks about how she discovered This Naked Mind, a science-based and compassion-focused approach to overcoming alcohol addiction. She also shares how she enrolled in a six-month course to become a coach and how she met her podcast partner along the way. Listen to this informative and inspiring conversation and learn how Megan transformed her life and found her passion and purpose. You will also hear some valuable tips and advice from Matt and Steve, who share their own experiences and insights on recovery. This is a podcast episode you will enjoy! Listen to Not Drinking Today - https://notdrinkingtodaypodcast.buzzsprout.com/ Megan Webb's Website - https://glassfulfilled.com.au/ Not Drinking Today, formerly She's Sober Sydney on Instagram - @shessobersydney Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 25, 2023
Send us a text What does it take to create a successful podcast about sobriety? How do you overcome the challenges of job hopping, guilt, and perfectionism? How do you deal with trolls and mispronunciations of your name? Find out in this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, where Matt and Steve chat with Gillian Tietz, the founder of A Sober Powered Life. Gillian was our guest on Episode 60. Click here to hear her story. Gillian shares her story of recovery and how she created a program to help others find their own way to sobriety. She also talks about her career journey, from being a fifth grade teacher to a biochemistry professor, and how she landed a prestigious teaching role without a PhD. She also reveals how she started the Sober Powered podcast, which is one of the top podcasts on the mental health charts on Apple. Along the way, you’ll hear some hilarious anecdotes about how people mispronounce her name and how she handles it. You’ll also hear some heartfelt stories about how teachers can make a difference in kids’ lives, and how Matt’s son and daughter benefited from having the right fifth grade teacher. You’ll also hear a shout out to Laura from Your Sober Pal, who just got a job offer after a long search. This episode is a great mix of humor, honesty, and hope for anyone who wants to live a sober powered life. Tune in and enjoy! Click here to check out Sober Powered You can find Gill on Instagram @sober.powered Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 18, 2023
Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, Matt and Steve chat with Courtney Anderson, an author, a podcaster, and a mom who has been sober for almost 11 years. Courtney is the host of the Sober Vibes podcast. Her book, Sober Vibes is out August 15th. Courtney talks about her experience with 12-step groups and how she found her comfort zone in women’s meetings. She explains how she overcame her anxiety and her resistance to the word God, and how she learned to live one day at a time, one moment at a time. She also shares how she encourages her clients to try different avenues of recovery and find what works for them. She gives some examples of online zoom meetings, podcasts, books, and other resources that can help people stay sober and connected. Courtney also discusses how technology has opened up new possibilities for connecting with other sober people online, and how she uses social media to spread her sober vibes. Listen to this episode to hear more about Courtney’s perspective, her book, and her advice on how to be open-minded and curious about different levels of recovery. This is a valuable episode for anyone who wants to find their sober vibe and live a more authentic and joyful life! Check out Sober Vibes . Pre-order Sober Vibes on Amazon. Courtney Anderson on Social Media: Sober Vibes on Instagram Courtney on Instagram Sober Vibes on Tik Tok Sober Vibes on Facebook Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 11, 2023
Send us a text Do you struggle with the concept of one day at a time? Do you wonder what it means for your recovery and your life? In this episode, we explore the different aspects of this famous phrase and how it can help us stay sober, present and grateful. We share our personal experiences and insights on how to apply this principle in various situations. Whether you are new to recovery or have been sober for a long time, this episode will inspire you to live one day at a time with more joy and serenity. Tune in and join the conversation! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Sun, July 09, 2023
Send us a text In this special crossover episode, Maz Compton from Last Drinks interviews Matt from Sober Friends Podcast about his unique and unexpected journey to sobriety. Matt shares how he had his last drink without even realizing it, how a TV show made him confront his alcohol problem, and how he felt like his body was on fire for weeks after quitting. Matt also opens up about his family history of alcoholism, his rules for drinking, and his challenges and rewards of living sober. Maz and Matt discuss the importance of asking yourself why you drink, how to deal with your feelings instead of numbing them, and how the universe speaks to us in whispers to guide us to our purpose. They also offer some practical advice and encouragement for anyone who is thinking of quitting drinking or struggling with sobriety. They also share how sobriety is not a magic bullet that will stop life from happening, but rather a key that will unlock your true potential and help you cope with whatever comes your way. In addition, Maz shares her own story of how she landed her dream job at MTV, but struggled with imposter syndrome, insecurity, and social anxiety. She reveals how alcohol became her coping tool for dealing with the pressures and expectations of being in the spotlight, and how she realized that she had a me problem, not a TV problem. She also talks about how she resigned from her dream job, went through a divorce, and faced other big life challenges that tested her relationship with alcohol. She also talks about how she discovered that she is an extroverted introvert, and how she learned to recharge her batteries in the right way without alcohol. She also shares how her job in breakfast radio gives her a sense of escapism and fun, but also can be exhausting and challenging. Tune in to hear this inspiring and honest conversation between two sober friends who have found the keys to the kingdom. Check out Last Drinks with Maz Compton Follow Maz Compton on social media Instagram @mazcompton and @lastdrinkspod Facebook @mrsmazcompton Linked In @mazcompton You can find Maz at mazcompton.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join
Tue, July 04, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, Matt and Steve C. have a heartfelt and honest conversation about addiction and family. Steve shares his story of losing his brother to a heart attack after years of alcoholism and drug use, and how he stayed sober through the grief and loss. He also talks about his own journey of recovery, how he distanced himself from his family to protect his sobriety, how he reconnected with his brother in the last years of his life, and how Steve distanced himself from family to protect his on recovery. This is a powerful and moving conversation that will resonate with anyone who has experienced addiction, trauma or loss in their family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 27, 2023
Send us a text Are you feeling overwhelmed by the endless list of things you need to do in your life? Do you find yourself neglecting your physical, mental, and emotional well-being as a result? Do you wonder how to find more balance and joy in your sobriety? If so, this episode is for you. Join Steve and Matt as they share their personal stories and struggles with self-care in recovery. They discuss how to avoid the pitfalls of perfectionism, stress, and boredom that can lead to relapse. They also share some tips and ideas on how to take care of yourself in different ways, such as exercise, hiking, service, socializing, or simply taking a day off. Tune in and learn how to prioritize your self-care and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and happy sober life. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 20, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, we have a special guest, Mary Tilson, a yoga teacher, retreat leader, and the host of the Sun and Moon Sober Living Podcast . Mary shares her inspiring story of how she went from being a cocaine addict and a party girl in Chicago to a sober and successful woman who travels the world teaching yoga and spreading awareness about sobriety. Mary tells us how she hit rock bottom and decided to seek help, and how she discovered yoga as a powerful tool for healing and transformation. She also shares how she decided to leave her corporate job and pursue her passion for travel and yoga, and how she found her purpose and community along the way. Mary shows us how sobriety can open up new possibilities and adventures, and how we can use yoga to connect with ourselves and others. If you are curious about yoga, travel, or sobriety, this episode is for you. Tune in and get inspired by Mary’s amazing journey of recovery and discovery. Check out The Sun and Moon Sober Living Podcast Mary can be found on Instagram @marytilson Sun and Moon Sober Living Podcast on Instagram @sunandmoon.soberliving Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 13, 2023
Send us a text I loved drinking alone. And man did it annoy me to hear that drinking alone would be the sign of a problem. In my mind, if I didn't drink alone, how would I otherwise drink? I did not have people around me who wanted to regularly drink the way I did. When I drink alone, I could be sure no one would criticize me and I would not get a DUI. I never left the house. Plus, I could "control" my drinking out and then drink the way I wanted at home. There is a reason drinking alone is the sign of a problem. You are taking a drunk and doing it alone removes social pressures from from getting as high as you want. I hope you enjoy and relate to this episode of drinking alone. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 06, 2023
Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Tim Phillips, the host of the Sober and Happy podcast, about his journey from alcohol addiction to sobriety. Tim shares how he drank differently than his friends in college, how he tried to fit in with AA, and how he left AA and found his own path to recovery. He also talks about how he makes his podcast episodes that are short, sweet, and helpful for anyone who wants to be sober and happy. We also discuss the phenomenon of people who don’t drink at all or drink very little, and how we can understand them better. Check out Tim's podcast, Sober and Happy at his website, soberandhappy.com . You can find Tim on Instagram at @iamsoberandhappy and on Facebook @iamsoberandhappy Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 30, 2023
Send us a text Setting boundaries was hard during our active addiction. We prioritized the drinking above all else. There were no boundaries during a drinking session because there was no way to predict where it would go. Our priorities were all out of wack. After getting sober, it's important to work on setting the right boundaries. That comes with knowing the right priorities and working on the personal defects that caused us to drink in the first place. Steve and I talk about some of the obstacles: People Pleasing Priorities Focusing on all the things we want to do, not the things we have to do This is a long term development for Steve and I. We don't have all the answers and if you struggle with setting boundaries, we hope this is helpful in your journey. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 23, 2023
Send us a text Laura had alcohol use disorder in her family and likely many who struggled with drinking, she thought she was immune to these challenges. Growing up she felt insecure and when she went to college, found out alcohol made her feel whole. After college, she found a way to capture that school feeling by moving to a ski town. Eventually, Laura’s drinking progressed to where an ex called her out for drinking tequila on a Tuesday. Instead of seeing this as a sign of problem drinking, it caused Laura to hide it. The urge was so strong she began drinking a friend’s expensive wine collection, something Laura could not replace. Eventually, Laura found she not avoid drinking, even when she did not want to. Pulled over for a DUI, she passed the field sobriety test and then registered 0.21 on the breathalyzer. Even the police officer telling Laura she might have a problem to be functional with such a high BAC did not stop her drinking. Some people think they can quit for a while and then control their drinking. Laura proved you come back worse. Laura tried podcasts and books and it was only going to a meeting and connecting with other alcoholics was she on her way to sobriety. Laura found the people in the meetings inspiring and developed the tools to deal with life on life’s terms and still not drink. Laura has had her own hard times and shares that her gratitude over sobriety has gotten her through those rough patches. Laura promised to pay it forward and she’s done that with her message she shares on Tik Tok and Instagram where she is vulnerable, honest, funny and inspiring with her message. When you listen to this episode, you’ll never think of Whole Foods the same way. Follow Laura on the following: Instagram @yoursoberpal Tik Tok @yoursoberpal Website yoursoberpal.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 16, 2023
Send us a text Andrea Owen hit bottom in 2007. Her husband had an affair with their neighbor and got her pregnant. When they split, she entered a new relationship only to find out nine months later he’d lived about having cancer to cover for his drug problem. He cheated on Andrea and fleeced her out of thousands of dollars. Andrea had isolated herself from her friends, quit her job and was moving out her apartment to move in with him. Andrea knew life had to change and asked the universe for whatever help she could get. In this episode, Andrea shares: How she attended 12 step meetings on co-dependency, yet dismissed her own alcohol issues How battle with sex and love addiction left a graveyard of broken hearts Dealing with the horrors of postpartum depression Big T and Little T “trauma.” Drinking before her husband came home, chugging wine just before he came in the door Battling ADD So much more Andrea Owen is a life coach, author and podcaster. She hosts “Make Some Noise with Andrea Owen,” anywhere you get your podcasts. She’s the author of the books: Make Some Noise How to Stop Feeling Like Shit 52 Ways to Live a Kick Ass Life The audio book, “Getting Damn Good at Life” You can find Andrea Owen at https://andreaowen.com/ Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/heyandreaowen/ Tik Tok at https://www.tiktok.com/@heyandreaowen Linked In at https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyandreaowen/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 09, 2023
Send us a text You ever hear a wise oldtimer talk about how the relapse happens before the first drink? For many, it's what happens in the mind well before that drink is taken. Steve and I talk about our behaviors that either lead us to drink, prevent us from stopping or lead to a relapse. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 02, 2023
Send us a text My relationship with alcohol was to the only unhealthy relationship I had. I likely drink too much coffee. Fortunately, it does not ruin my life. I loved pain pills. I smoked for a short time. I used all those substances like how I used alcohol to change how I felt. Food is another thing that I handled “alcoholically.” I’ve struggled with my weight from childhood and Steve has too. There are some types of food that make my body react the way alcohol does. Sugar is definitely one of them. I’ve lost weight when I’ve controlled my food. My weight goes up when I enjoy my food. I’m sure there are many of you like this, who don’t just struggle with booze, you struggle with other things like food. Victoria Yates is a registered nurse and nutritional coach. Victoria addresses healthy food habits differently than others. She is not into fad diets, calorie counting and fasting. Victoria practices a principal called Intuitive Eating, which is about listening to your body and feelings when eating. After all, gaining or losing weight is not all about the amount we eat, it’s about the feeling food gives us. I know for this alcoholic, food is another solution to my feelings, just like alcohol. In this episode: Victoria tells us about how she had a poor relationship with food and her own body, leading to an eating disorder for 8 years of her life How the book, Intuitive Eating changed her life What she preaches to her clients How you have to be willing to fail in trying to lose weight And how you have to throw out everything you’ve learned about the “right way” to eat You can connect with Victoria Yates at her website, victoria-yates.com and on Instagram at @nondiet_RN Check out Victoria’s show The Redefining Health Podcast wherever you get your shows. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 25, 2023
Send us a text One of the biggest turn offs for people considering a 12 step group or even those already in, is the topic of God, religion and spirituality. But what exactly is spirituality and why does it go hand in hand with self knowledge of alcoholism? Both Matt and Steve have some challenges with the view of the religious higher power. This topic was brought up by a friend in the rooms, who came into recovery as an atheist and now finds himself agnostic with a view that his higher power is not himself. How does self knowledge work for you in recovery? Do you need a higher power? What does spirituality look like for you? Where do you struggle and where do you have strength? Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 18, 2023
Send us a text What is the end goal of recovery? Is it to die sober? Our friend Scott L recently passed after a fight with lung cancer. Scott died sober with 5 years of recovery. It did not come easy for Scott but when he got it, he got it. Steve and I talk about what dying sober means, is it the end goal and how recovery folks feel when we see an obit that says, "They died sober." I know I want that to be in my obit. What do you think? Is passing with a sober life your goal? Or is it still One Day at a Time? Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 11, 2023
Send us a text We are so fortunate to have Ash Butterss, host of the podcast, Behind the Smile. Ash has been sober since February 2020 and has a family history of alcoholism. For Ash, recovering out loud is a core value. She doesn’t want those in recovery living in the shadows, she wants those who are considering putting down the bottle to see that not only is recovery possible, but that your life will be so much better than you could ever imagine. In this episode Ash talks about: How her father’s alcoholism and recovery impacted her own sobriety journey The time she stole her dealer’s coke How drinking changed everything, how consuming alcohol was the elixir that stopped her from hating on herself Never feeling safe as a child Developing perfectionism and people pleasing Abandonment issues with her parents Ash explains perfectionism in a way that was so relatable to me. I know you will love this episode. Please follow Ash on Instagram at Ashbutterss Check out the excellent Behind the Smile Podcast Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Mon, April 03, 2023
Send us a text We talk about loss and emotions in this week's episode of the Sober Friends Podcast. Each week, my two girls go to a farm where they clean stables, wash and care for horses and then learn the different aspects of riding. Their favorite horse was Holden, a 29 year old horse was very gentle and the logo for the farm. My daughter Annelyse has significant anxiety and Holden made her feel safe. Holden had Equine Cushing's Disease and early stages of dementia. There is medicine for Cushing's, but Holden refused to take it. The decision was made to put Holden to sleep. We had a good-bye celebration last week, where everyone Holden touched came to share cupcakes, cake and a last spoiling of this special horse. The next day, Holden crossed the rainbow. This caused a well up in my emotions. It especially started when Annelyse broke into tears asking why things she loved had to die. For a parent, this is very difficult to experience. It also reminded me of the emotions I felt when I first got sober. How great sadness could overcome me without notice. Steve and I also talked about the impact spirituality and God play. Both of us have a challenging relationship with belief and are on our own spiritual journeys. We talk about our personal beliefs in God, the afterlife and it's role in recovery. Thank you for giving me an outlet for these emotions for this podcast and I hope you can connect with your own thoughts on difficult emotions and the vision of your own Higher Power. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 28, 2023
Send us a text It feels like we are weak when we ask for help but it's the opposite. When you ask someone else for help, it's a sign of strength. In sobriety, it's so important to have a network of people you can lean on. That phone you have to call out on? 10,000 points and 8 foot buttons. We talk through on this podcast about how asking for help is so important in sobriety and how when you ask for help, you are making someone else feel better. How do you feel when you ask for help? What does it feel like when someone else asks you for help? Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 21, 2023
Send us a text (Sigh) I'm feeling some work stress. Things in the day job have changed dramtically. We've been undergoing pretty significant change since COVID hit. Reorgs, process changes, new product releases and so much more. Our company values the ability to embrace change and pivot and it's a strength of mine. There also comes a time when there is so much change to so much in such a short period of time that you reach capacity. That's where I am today. And it feels unfair. I'm a high performer and my record shows it. And I feel like my career is on the line for a number of reasons totally outside of my control. Wait, things outside of our control and that equallying stress? 🚨🚨🚨RED ALERT!🚨🚨🚨 🚨🚨🚨RED ALERT!🚨🚨🚨 🚨🚨🚨RED ALERT!🚨🚨🚨 This is the alcoholic's big fear. It just justifies what's always in the the back of my head. All this success has been a mirage. Back to the poor house again! This thinking is damaging and self destructive. Thankfully, I have Steve to talk me down. We hope you find this very helpful as I think every alcoholic can relate to the mindset that all will be lost. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 14, 2023
Send us a text “Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.” This is one of the most important traditions guiding Alcoholics Anonymous. So important, it's the other “A” in “AA.” The idea of anonymity is that the member and fellowship is protected. There has been stigma for decades with alcoholism, that it's not a medical condition, but a moral failing. Anonymity gives the person looking for recovery the protection and comfort to get sober without accusation. Everyone has seen the celebrity announcing their sobriety, only to be caught publiclly drunk. It can cause AA headaches. Looking online, there are more and more people who don't want to be anonymous. They want to be out there and want to be a example that others thinking of dropping the bottle. Is the idea of anonymity past its time? Or is this critical to a successful recovery journey. It's a very controversial topic and we think you'll love this discussion. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 07, 2023
Send us a text Those of us with alcohol use disorder can shift from one addiction to another. We are very obsessive. Gardening Eating Sex Work So many other things to ease our emotions. It becomes a problem when it takes you away from your family, impacts finances and health. Steven and Matt talk a bit of their experience with those addictions that pop up that replace the drink. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 28, 2023
Send us a text I was not prepared for how my family would react to the work I had to do to stay sober. Specifically, going to meetings. Going to a lot of meetings. At one point, my wife asked me, "When do you stop going to those meetings?" How do I tell my wife I don't ever stop, just like I don't ever stop being an alcoholic. Steve and I talk about our challenges with getting sober and how it affected the family. It took about two years before my wife was really supportive of being out of the home. Many of us have had this experience. If you are new and are having these issue, we hope this episode gives you experience strength and hope. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 21, 2023
Send us a text Matt and Steve have done a lot of learning about the construction of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous from reaching "Writing the Big Book," by Bill Schaberg. In today's language, the chapter, "To Wives," is troublesome. In the context of 1938, it reflected the times. Men were alcoholics Alcoholics were white, Christian men Women supported the man in the home The chapter states it's "written," by the women of AA. In reality, Bill Wilson wrote it himself. In today's times, it can be viewed as sexist and submissive to the alcoholic in the family. Steve and Matt talk about the chapter in today's society and the best way to digest it to make it relevant in modern times. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 14, 2023
Send us a text At three months sober, Matt's wife asked, "So how long are you going to keep going to these meetings?" "Uh-Oh." There is no cure for alcoholism. There is only a daily reprieve. We need to find ways to continually treat our illness. For people like Steve and Matt, that's 12 step meetings. For you, it might be something else as no one has a monopoly on sobriety. So why do we keep going? In this podcast, we talk about the need to stay connected to the fellowship and others with the same affliction and the need to teach the newcomer how we did it, so they can stay sober too. Congratulations to John I who has 33 years sober! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 07, 2023
Send us a text Bill Schaberg has arguably written the definitive history of how the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous was written. Bill produced “Writing The Big Book,” and his wife calls it, “the other big book,” because it’s 650 pages, before the appendixes. Bill completed the book after 7 years of research from the source material. Bill is a rare book collector and seller and it all started with his purchase of Jim Burwell’s copy of the multilith copy of the original Big Book. In Part 2 of the interview with Bill Schaberg, we discuss: What really happened when Ebby Thatcher visited Bill Wilson (The Kitchen Table Story) The problem with most AA history The many stories Bill told on how the steps were written Who really wrote, “To Wives,” and the urban legends about this chapter Hank Parkhurt’s role in writing the Big Book and his later resentment of Bill Wilson Check out Bill Schaberg's site writingthebigbook.com where you can pick up his book, Writing the Big Book . Learn more about Hank Parkhurst at hankparkhurst.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 31, 2023
Send us a text Bill Schaberg has arguably written the definitive history of how the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous was written. Bill produced “Writing The Big Book,” and his wife calls it, “the other big book,” because it’s 650 pages, before the appendixes. Bill completed the book after 7 years of research from the source material. Bill is a rare book collector and seller and it all started with his purchase of Jim Burwell’s copy of the multilith copy of the original Big Book. In Part 1 of the interview with Bill Schaberg, we discuss: The genesis of the why he wrote the book Bill W’s realization of why a book was written Bill W’s original plan to help alcoholics recover Hank Pankhurst - the founder that drank and how there would be no Big Book without him The Oxford Group - how the originals got sober Bill Schaberg’s controversial take on who should be on the AA Mount Rushmore Check out Bill Schaberg's site writingthebigbook.com where you can pick up his book, Writing the Big Book . Learn more about Hank Parkhurst at hankparkhurst.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 24, 2023
Send us a text "WHY DOES THAT PERSON ALWAYS DO THAT TO ME? DON'T THEY KNOW IT MAKES ME SO ANGRY?" I heard a wise old-timer at a meeting recently say, "I brought out the defects of character in others." I never thought of that! Maybe my rotten behavior brought out the worst in the other person, whose bad behavior now gave me a resentment. Steve and Matt talk about other people's behaviors, owning our own actions and making an amends to clean up our side of the street. We wish the normies had the tools we alcoholics have! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 17, 2023
Send us a text Ugh! You need to stop drinking! How do you handle going to meetings or whatever your sobriety method is and handle the responsibilities of being a parent and partner? This week, we got you covered! Matt and Steve both had to deal with this issue when they got sober. We tell our experiences and how to balance family and recovery. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 10, 2023
Send us a text Joe Kelley had everything going for him. He was a high school football star. Joe’s family were all first responders - His father a firefighter an uncles in the police department. Eventually, Joe followed in their footsteps to join law enforcement. Joe described his job as a police officer as strenuous and as someone who had been physically fit all his life, loved it. Joe Kelley would have no idea that the pain pills prescribed after knee surgury would not only take down his law enforcement career, but his family and his freedom. Joe is our guest on this week’s podcast. In this episode Joe shares: The depths of his opioid addiction and how he turned to more desperate methods to get drugs Lying to his wife about spending money to get pain pills Having the community hear about his misdeeds in the paper Doing time and the challenges prison places on ex-law enforcement Recovery, starting a new business and new family Joe and his wife run OM Center for Wellness. You can check them out here. Joe is the author of "Badge, Bars to Beyond." You can purchase Joe's book here. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 03, 2023
Send us a text Peter L is one of the many people in recovery to get sober during the pandemic and have is first experience with a 12 step group be over Zoom. Podcasts like Sober Friends and Recovered Cast helped enhance his sobriety, during a time when getting together in person was not happening. Peter L’s sobriety date is December 3, 2020. Peter was the kind of guy who thought he could drink responsibly but at the same time, wondered if he had a problem. Peter got drunk for the first time at the age of eleven. Being a high school partier was part of who he was and took this behavior into adulthood. Peter broke his ankle in a basketball game and led to an addiction to pain pills. Peter was able to get off of pain pills with the help of Methadone. With pain pills removed, Peter’s drinking accelerated, affecting his health After Peter had his second child, he was drinking 2 fifths a day for three or four years. Peter was hemorrhaging in his eyes because his blood pressure was so high. His sleep apnea worsened and Peter’s wife would watch him not breathe for minutes at a time. Needing a drink to get started each morning, Peter finally decided to check into rehab. After only one day, Peter’s withdrawal symptoms led to his doctor putting him in a medically induced coma. When Peter work up, he tried to tell his wife he no longer needed rehab. Once in rehab, a speaker came to a meeting that shared a similar story to Peters and that’s when he found his sponsor. Peter’s sponsor was stern and it was exactly what he needed to maintain sobriety. Peter let go and felt it was like someone was now driving for him. He threw himself into the steps and work with his sponsor and it not only kept Peter sober, but it helped with his mental health too. Getting sober on Zoom, you’ll hear Peter’s creative way to finding the best meetings. Peter’s story is incredibly inspirational and we know you will love this episode. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 27, 2022
Send us a text Joe and Charlie were actually three men who travelled the country providing Big Book Seminars. Joe McQ Charlie P Joe McC Joe and Charlie were big book enthusiasts who studied the book Alcoholics Anonymous. They were fascinated with how the book was constructed and went on to give seminars on the meaning behind the book. Though Joe, Charlie and Joe have all passed, their work lives on in tapes, CDs and digital media. At the beginning of each year, many alcoholics meet in homes and go through the seminar on tape and do a deep dive into the text of the book Alcoholics Anonymous. Matt, Steve and John have done this for years. In this podcast, Matt, Steve and John talk about why they go over these tapes year after year, how it's helped to learn more about the Big Book, how their small fellow ship at these meetings help them grow and how it's brought their sobriety to another level. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 20, 2022
Send us a text Jean McCarthy is the host of the podcasts, The Bubble Hour and Tiny Bubbles. Jean is also the author of Take Good Care, The Ember Ever There and the Unpickled series of recovery books. Jean was terrified to walk into an AA meeting when she got sober. It was an epiphany for Jean to quit drinking when she was ahead, instead of waiting until she lost it all. She was active and visible in her community and was concerned about what people would think about her. She learned later when she finally attended 12 step meetings, that no one really cared about her terminal uniqueness. Jean decided to start a secret blog called Unpicked about recovery to keep the story together and that she would document what it was like. She also felt, maybe this can help someone else who feels like me. Jean did not go to her first meeting until she was 8 years sober because she was looking for fellowship first and was afraid she’d be kicked out. Jean met a fellowship online from all over the world, but felt disconnected and alone in her own community. She learned in AA that she could take what she liked and leave the rest. Jean shared a powerful story about her son’s wedding and how, when in the grips of alcohol addiction, she could only think about booze and how if her family realized who she really was, Jean would lose their love. Jean talked about why she is ending the hugely successful Bubble Hour podcast and her reason will shock you. It’s the antithesis of her terminal uniqueness in addiction and a sign of her continued health in recovery. We were so blessed to have Jean McCarthy share her story of hope and recovery and know you will be affected like we were. You can find Jean McCarthy at https://jeanmccarthy.ca/ Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 13, 2022
Send us a text The podcast audience comes and goes over the course of a show. As we move past 100 episodes, you may not have looked at the back catalogue we have put together. This is a great opportunity to look back to the past at some of our favorite shows. My wife brought Tyler to my attention. She grew up with Tyler and knew his story. This show had an incredibly positive reaction when it originally dropped. There is a lot of spirituality in Tyler’s story and the role God has played in his life. As I continue to go through my own spiritual journey, I thought this would be a great one to share with you too. Tyler thought is was normal to get drunk growing up. It was what everyone in town did at his age. Then his parents got divorced and the drinking escalated. But he already had a strong, spiritual faith and it ended up being his lifeline. Tyler is a childhood friend of my wife. He heard about this podcast from her on Facebook and wanted to talk about his life in sobriety. In this episode, Tyler discusses is upbringing in a wealthy town, the break up of his parent's marriage and how alcohol entered his life. Tyler grew up with a strong spiritual background, something that continues to this day. He got sober at 19 and Tyler tells of his story of being in the Institute of Living and how he was able to continue his recovery in college and beyond. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 06, 2022
Send us a text Andrea from the Adult Child Podcast joins the show this week. Andrea is honest, vulnerable and in your face and this is a raw conversation about alcoholism and the trauma received of being an adult child of alcoholics. Matt and Andrea are both sober and both children of alcoholics. In this show, Andrea discusses: Their path to getting sober at 18 Getting to 7 years of sobriety and realizing, after a bad break up, that the trauma of her childhood was echoing in her present How the 12 steps, therapy and a higher power helped her recovery Realizing she will never be fixed, but will make progress each day As part of her recovery, Andrea created the Adult Child podcast. You can click here to listen or download it wherever you get your podcasts. Andrea has also created a community on Patreon where she helps others who are Adult Children of Alcoholics with: Weekly virtual support groups Exclusive content not shared on the pod Episode topic and guest question suggestions AMA (ask me anything - nothing is off limits!) You can support Adult Child Patreon by clicking here . Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 29, 2022
Send us a text Our guest this week is Gregg Champion who just celebrated 28 years sober. Gregg has a fascinating story you will easily find a way to relate. Gregg believes he was an alcoholic at 4 years old, when his father died in a car accident. Alcoholism was in his family and he coped with fantasy, girls, and giving in to his anger. When he was a teen, alcohol and drugs came into the picture. Gregg was always looking for a short cut when he could and found one selling drugs. This led to a bust with 50 pounds of pot. Given a pass by the judge, he was immediately busted selling cocaine to an undercover officer. This bottom led to Gregg's recovery where only the presence of a higher power could explain the chain of events, including the help of a local priest who got him sober, which he continues to be, to this day. You'll love this powerful and emotional conversation with Gregg. Check out Gregg on Instagram . Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 22, 2022
Send us a text We are into our third year! To kick it off, we invited Pete B back to talk about the history of Narcotics Anonymous. If you know about 12 step groups, I bet you know a lot of Alcoholics Anonymous, but what do you know about NA? Well, we knew next to nothing. Pete B was involved with writing the original text of NA back in the early 1980s. Who better to talk about how NA started. Like many 12 step groups, the first NA groups used the AA Big Book and their steps to get clean. But it was a long road to the founding of one branch in the 1950's to a more structured program in the 70's. It took until the early 80's for NA to get their own literature and that's when growth happened. You'll love this oral history of NA from Pete B. He's so grateful for his program and decades of sobriety, he will pull you into the story of this other fellowship. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 15, 2022
Send us a text Thank you for supporting the Sober Friends Podcast for 100 Episodes! We started this in November 2020 as a way of spreading the message of hope that recovery is possible, when outside meetings were still very hard to find, in person. We will continue to spread the message that sobriety is possible, no matter your path to get there. For our 100th episode, Matt J takes this one solo, talking about his 25th college reunion in October. Matt's college experience was a wet one, full of booze, drunkenness and underachievement. Post college, since 2014, it's been a dry one, living alcohol free and a life second to none. Matt got together with his college friends, the ones who were the highest quality friends one could have. Yet his broken mindset caused him to chase for something else. Those who would improve his social standing. Those who would find him girls and popularity. Always chasing, never realizing where he was. Matt's trip back to his campus and getting back together with his old friends made him realize a lot of what he missed, what he had what was really important in life. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 08, 2022
Send us a text What does it mean when we hear people say, "Don't Stop Before The Miracle Happens?" It means toughing it out during the hard times, now matter how long it takes. Because if you do the work long enough, you will be able to handle life on life's terms, without taking a drink. On this episode, Matt, Steve and John talk about their own experiences with the impatience it takes to get to the point where you look back and say, "I don't need that drink anymore to deal with this problem," and how there are other parts of life that require patience, that we have to summon all our strength to get. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 01, 2022
Send us a text “I am responsible, when anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there, and for that I am responsible.” -AA Responsibility Statement Steve C says that his program of recovery is never better than when he’s working with another alcoholic and he has a much better sobriety. It brings us to the question, “Why do we do this podcast?” We get together each week not just for the glory and riches (there are none), but to find another way to bring recovery to the newcomer. With the pandemic, meetings shut down and those in need had a hard time finding a path to recovery. Podcasts are one of those ways the message can be shared with someone sober curious. On this week’s podcast, Matt, John and Steve share their own personal message on why they do this podcasts and the recovery rewards they receive. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 25, 2022
Send us a text Pete B joins us again this week for more of his emotional journey from drug addiction. Pete discusses how his friend George got him to come back again after some of the guys in the group said Pete would not last. George became his sponsor and was able to guide him on a path of 40 years of sobriety. In this episode, Pete discusses: Getting involved in NA service NA having to stop using the AA Literature, and getting involved in writing the first literature Spending weekends in jail camps and reading Bill W's story, and feeling the same feelings of imposter syndrome Bill did. Turning your greatest shame into your greatest strengths through the work of the steps. A sponsor's job is to connect their sponsee to a higher power. You'll likely get emotional when Pete does. We were so lucky to record a little bit of history of the start of NA literature. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 18, 2022
Send us a text Pete B is a veteran of the Navy. His mother was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and father belonged to Al-Anon. Pete's defense mechanism was to be the family joker. Later on, he joined the military and got into a lot of jams due to his use of drugs and alcohol, including a black out in Israel. This episode is incredibly emotional and Pete is very vulnerable with his experiences, including an out of body experience and the credit he gives his best friend from bringing him back, only to lose his friend a few days later. After times in and out of Alcoholics Anonymous, Pete found relief in Narcotics Anonymous, getting past some skepticism. In Part 2, Pete talks about Narcotics Anonymous having to move past AA literature and his part in creating the first real NA writings. Over the next two weeks, you'll be hearing about some powerful recovery talk and vulnerability with emotions with Pete B. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 11, 2022
Send us a text Kelly G shared her story in Episode 44. She comes back a year later and now over 600 days sober and shares how she's continued to grow in recovery. In our quest to know more about the different ways people get sober, Kelly is not a member of AA and tells us her method of recovery. Lots and lots of Sober Podcasts Connecting with folks on Instagram Cafe RE via Recovery Elevator Kelly's first appearance in Episode 44 was one of our most listened to and well received episodes. The time we spent talking to Kelly went fast and we hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it. Check out Kelly Giannuzzi on Instagram. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 04, 2022
Send us a text "God, grant us the serenity, to accept the things we can not change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference." "And thats the hard part." -Jim A. A Wise Old Timer Change has come to Matt's place of employment and knowing it was coming was really scary. Was he going to lose his job? Turns out, no. He survived a change to the business and others were not so lucky. It got John and Matt thinking about change and how it trips up alcoholics and those in recovery. We drunks love to control EVERYTHING! If things just went the way we wanted it to go and if everyone just did what we wanted them to do, things would be perfect! Right? Matt believes our own emotions and actions are under our control and nothing else. John believes control eludes us in every way. Who has control? Our higher power. This episode is a reminder that if we accept what we can and can't control, it's easier to go with the flow and find serenity. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 27, 2022
Send us a text Stress is difficult to handle before getting sober. We used to drink to handle how we felt about stress. When alcohol is removed, we have to find another way of dealing with stress so it does not overwhelm us and cause us to shut down. A friend reached out to Matt, venting and for advice on how to handle stress. It helped Matt to hear his friend's issue and made him think too. What causes us stress and what is a healthy way of dealing with it? On this edition of the Sober Friends Podcast, we address Coping with Stress in Sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 20, 2022
Send us a text Chris from the UK sponsored this episode and bought us 3 coffees at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberfriendspod . By purchasing 3 coffees, Chris is ensuring the show will be available for the new guy and anyone needing to hear the message the recovery is possible. Lisa Gray is the founder of A Promise to Jordan. Lisa lost her son Jordan Arakelian on June 30, 2018, at the age of 24. As Lisa held Jordan for the last time, she made a promise to him to fight against the disease of opioid addition. Less than two months later, the first meeting of A Promise to Jordan happened. In this episode, Lisa tells us about her family and the void Jordan left. She discusses taking to people at Jordan's funeral about the organization she was planning and how the community of Simsbury, CT came to her aid. Lisa talks about the hardship that COVID brought in 2020 and how the organization overcame funding uncertainty to thrive. Also on this episode: Lisa discusses medical aids to sobriety Her focus on getting Narcan in as many places as possible Creating fun sober events in the community so there are safe places for people in recovery and those considering sobriety. We know many of you listening live outside of Connecticut. We highly recommend supporting Lisa's cause by donating generously to A Promise to Jordan. If you are like us, you know too many lives that ended far too early from the opioid crisis. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Mon, September 12, 2022
Send us a text The show is brought to you by Sally, who bought us 3 cups of coffee at Buymeacoffee.com/Soberfriendspod . If you, like Sally think it's important to get the message that sobriety is possible for the new guy, consider a donation to Buymeacoffee.com/Soberfriendspod . When we first get sober, we are flying on a pink cloud. Everything is new, your method of sobriety is exciting and you are willing to put in every effort. Then life gets better and we have the tools to get through life without a drink. We start to think, "Damn, I got this!" This begins a phase of complacency and it's a dangerous place for us alcoholics. John, Steve and Matt talk Complacency in recovery. What defines complacency? How complacency can trip us up The battle against getting complacent What we do to hold ourselves accountable We'd love to hear your feedback? How do you guard against complacency? Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 06, 2022
Send us a text Alcoholic behavior, obviously shows up when you are drinking. Just because you get sober and don't drink, doesn't mean your alcoholic behavior goes away. If you don't work on your recovery, this behavior can come back right, quick! We can behave alcoholically when the following happens: Not going to meetings Calling other alcoholics Practicing the principals of 12 step programs You ever get told by your significant other, "Hey, you going to a meeting tonight?" Those around us know when our behaviors slip. What is your view of behaving alcoholically? Join the conversation! Email the show at matt@soberfriendspod.com. Connect on Instagram @soberfriendspod. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 30, 2022
Send us a text Sober people are on platform at all times. One slip up and it's easy for those around to point out why you are not walking the walk. John kicked things off talking about a new sponsee who was going to a sober retreat. John didn't want to go, but an oldtimer reminded him, that the sponsee can't go to these without the guidance of his sponsor. There are so many ways sober people have a responsibility to be the change they want the world to be: Acting with kindness and being available to new comers at meetings Not acting like a jerk on social media to those not in a 12 step program Not blowing up on your neighbors and when you do, making amends Want to help a newcomer stay sober? Show them that if they want what you have, then they should do what you've done and it's on the level. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 23, 2022
Send us a text Oh boy. I bet we get everyone upset with this episode. People who go to AA. People who don't go to AA. We go through it all with what we feel are very realistic views on why some people don't go to AA and how 12 step programs are not perfect and how there can be some things that legit turn people off. Credit where credit is due. This episode was inspired by Episode 36 of the Sober Powered Podcast , " Your Sober Pal Tells us What AA is Like ." In the book, "Alcoholics Anonymous," Bill W. states that AA does not have a monopoly on sobriety. Matt, John and Steve got sober in the the 12 step tradition, but we wholeheartedly agree. There are many paths to get sober. It's scary to go to the first AA meeting. Matt's therapist said it would stop being scary after the first nine times. There are perceptions that keep people away: I have to be part of a religion I have to say I'm an alcoholic It's a bunch of elderly men in a basement They will tell me I'm doing it wrong If you don't go to AA, I think you'll identify with what we discuss. If you are, I think you've seen some of the behaviors those AA shy are turned off from. Give us some feedback on this! What is your story? Are you a member of AA? Do you get sober via other means? We'd love to hear your story too! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 16, 2022
Send us a text This week's guest is Matt, who started drinking at 13. Matt was a high achiever, doing well in college and Grad school. He had a family and a great job. And he was an alcoholic. A lot of you will see yourself in Matt. He was socially awkward until he found alcohol. He had to be careful in public drinking. Drinking at home, was another story. He drank like he did in college, even during his 30's. He tried AA, had a sponsor and had a relapse. Driving home with his wife and in laws in the car, drunk, had the wheel taken from him and told to get the hell out when he got home. This was Matt's bottom and was the impetus to get sober. There is so much I know you'll identify with in Matt's story. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 02, 2022
Send us a text One of the Sober Instagram accounts we find the most inspiring is @jenmovesforward . Jen joins us this week to talk about her story, overcoming relapse, making recovery her career and how fitness is part of how she stays sober. In this Sober Friends Episode Jen tells us: How she started using in her teens Knowing in her 20's that she had a problem Losing relationships over drugs and alcohol Almost losing her current husband Overcoming relapse and finding a career in the recovery world The place fitness plays in her journey Her love of archery This was one of those podcasts we had to stop talking before the tape was rolling because it was so good. I know you'll love Jen's story. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 26, 2022
Send us a text The root of our alcoholism and our alcoholic thinking is our character defects. The 12 Steps are instrumental in getting through our character defects, especially with Steps 4 and 5. Many of our character defects are associated with fear and ego. Character defects have a root in selfishness and doing for others is a way to bust them. Here are ways to work on a character defect: Acknowledgement of the defect Prayer Talk to another alcoholic Join Steve and Matt as we talk about Character Defects, how they impact us and how we address them to live a happy sober life. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 19, 2022
Send us a text Matt was inspired by Gill Tietz's Sober Powered episode, Staying Sober During the Holidays . The episode is much less staying sober during the holidays, and more staying sober at events where booze is available. Practicable advice for those in recovery for anytime. BBQs Work parties Concerts Ect John, Matt and Steve talked about their experience being on guard for the unguarded moment. In this episode we talk about: Keeping your drink in your hand. If you put it down, get another Tell a bartender you are not drinking and stick with that person (thanks Gill) Our thoughts on non-alcoholic versions of an alcoholic drink How people put booze in food and to watch out. This is great advice for anyone looking at sobriety, new or old. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 12, 2022
Send us a text The show is brought to you by Sean, who bought us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberfriendspod . Sean thought it was important to put the show in the newcomer's ear. Recovery is not just for the person getting sober. Recovery affects the family too. For us, our family was very happy when we put the bottle down. But they had a hard time understanding all these meetings we had to go to and all these drunks running through our house. For Matt, it was a place of friction for his wife over the first 3 years of sobriety. His wife would talk about running out to be with his friends when his family needed him. Over time, the family understood that the work with other alcoholics was what made him a better dad and husband. We thought this might speak to you. Do you have challenges getting to meetings or however else you choose to get sober, due to family obligations? What have you experienced? We are looking for your feedback too! Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 05, 2022
Send us a text Ryan M has made recovery a huge part of his life. He didn't get sober, he got involved. Ryan has been part of the service culture of AA from his entire time getting sober (March 2013). Coming into the program in his early 30's, he was attracted to the younger people in his 12 step group and got involved the the Young People in AA organizations. If you go to a service group in Ryan's area, chances are you will run into him. It was not always like that. During his drinking career, Ryan isolated. He started out being part of the crowd and as his drinking got worse, he got older and his friends moved on, his only companions were TV shows and movies. Ryan lived vicariously through the shows he watched, never really engaging with life. At Ryan's lowest, he was arrested at his parent's home, while picking up dog poop. And like many of us who put down the bottle, he was able to change into something beyond his wildest dreams. Join us for this inspiring story of recovery and service from our friend Ryan M. Want to help our show? Subscribe, review, rate and share. Help us get the show into the ears of those who could use it the most. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 28, 2022
Send us a text Vacation is a dangerous time for those of us with problem drinking. Vacation is a great time to suspend all the rules and drink as much as we want. Hey, it's 5pm somewhere! Am I right? Or am I right! On this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, Matt, Steve and John talk about the trap that vacation can cause for us. It's a risky time because we have time on our hands. We talk about how to overcome the temptation on vacation and have a plan: Get a list of phone numbers from people you can call, when your backside is on fire If out of the country, download apps that allow you to communicate over the internet Talk to family and friends and explain your situation and ask for support If you are involved in a 12 step program, go online or get booklets of meetings around your vacation spot Want to help our show? Subscribe, review, rate and share. Help us get the show into the ears of those who could use it the most. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 21, 2022
Send us a text The dictionary definitions of "Abstinence" and "Sobriety" look very similar. For the purpose of living a happy, joyous and free life in recovery, they can mean very different things. Overall, Matt, Steve and John identified Abstinent as being dry. This is a state where alcohol has been removed but nothing has come in to replace it. To get sober, you have to replace alcohol as the solution to your problems. We drank because it numbed the pain or it enhanced the joy. Being sober means that you can get through everyday life without leaning on the crutch of a drink Matt, Steven and John talk about their own experiences being abstinent and being sober. Want to help our show? Subscribe, review, rate and share. Help us get the show into the ears of those who could use it the most. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 14, 2022
Send us a text For those of us with a drinking problem, one of the symptoms was isolation and putting up walls to drive others away. Once some of us get sober we still have a hard time letting others in. If you discovered what I really am like, you'd see I was a fraud, an awful person and someone you'd be repelled by. Do you feel this way sometimes? John, Steven and Matt discuss the inability to get intimate with our chosen pack and how not being able to get vulnerable an honest can have disastrous consequences on our sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, June 07, 2022
Send us a text It’s so easy to focus on the bad stuff in life and even easier to correlate them. Matt has had some issues with his house and financing the repairs. At every corner, he’s run into roadblocks (see last week’s episode). Matt’s therapist posed a question: “Have you considered a gratitude list?” So instead of focusing on all the bad stuff, why not look at what good you still have? In this episode of the Sober Friends podcast we talk about staying grateful when life gives you lemons and how you can deal with life on life’s terms. Want to help our show? Subscribe, review, rate and share. Help us get the show into the ears of those who could use it the most. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 31, 2022
Send us a text Oh my! Financial insecurity. It's one of those fears that can make you drink and can derail any period of recovery. One of the AA Promises says: " Fear of people and of economic insecurity will leave us." Does that mean if financial insecurity pops up again, you've been doing the program incorrectly? Matt J has some financial issues lately. Along with a lot going on at work and in his home life, the financial concerns of a home project have become overwhelming. Instead of suffering in silence, he used this podcast as a way to help others. Steve C joined the show and gave his perspective and advice including, "why not go to a few more meetings?" Have you had fear of money? Did this go away the longer you recovered? Are you new and this is at the forefront of your concerns? If you are in a 12 step program, where did the 4th, 5th, 8th and 9th steps come into play? This is great episode that whatever your length of clean time, we know you can relate and find value! Want to help our show? Subscribe, review, rate and share. Help us get the show into the ears of those who could use it the most. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 24, 2022
Send us a text In this compelling episode of the Sober Friends podcast, join Matt, Steve, and John as they dive deep into a powerful story of overcoming addiction and finding hope. As a police officer, Steve shares candidly about the constant state of hypervigilance he experienced on the job and how it intertwined with symptoms of PTSD and alcoholism. From the early days of experimentation with alcohol to navigating college and beyond, Steve's journey sheds light on the complexities of addiction and the road to recovery. With vulnerability and honesty, he shares his struggles, including academic probation and job loss, painting a picture that many listeners can relate to. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of sobriety or just beginning your journey, Steve's story offers insight, inspiration, and a reminder that no matter where you are, you're not alone. Tune in to hear how Steve found strength and support to celebrate over 100 days of sobriety, proving that healing is possible, one day at a time. Please subscribe, follow, listen, rate and share our show. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 17, 2022
Send us a text Today’s show is dedicated to the memory of Frank C. He helped so many in East Hartford, CT and the surrounding area. When I got sober, I marveled at the old timer. They had respect of the room. They looked content and they were sober. Not just sober, really, really sober with a lot of years. How the hell did they do it? Was it the way they crossed their legs? I was determined to find out, because I wanted to be a geezer some day too! There comes a time that the old timer who was there when you got sober, isn’t there anymore. Someone I trust and adore in my meetings said, “Keep making friends in the program because you don’t know when the current ones we have will leave us. If the 12 steps and meetings are a part of your recovery, I’m sure you will identify with this show. Please subscribe, follow, listen, rate and share our show. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 10, 2022
Send us a text The episode is sponsored by Victor, who became a member at Buy Me a Coffee and agreed to do so each month. With people like Victor, we can remain self supporting through our own contributions and bring the message to the new guy. Arlina Allen is the host of the One Day at a Time Podcast. You can find her at https://odaatchat.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts. In this show Arlina talks about Bottles, bags and blue jeans Change in AA The different paths of recovery We had so much fun recording this one and you'll really enjoy listening too. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, May 03, 2022
Send us a text We got to know Danielle last week, as she reached out to the show on how to handle a disruptive alcoholic at a meeting. After talking to her, we realized her story would really help the new guy as she brings a remarkable story of recovery. Danielle started drinking, one year after her mother died of ovarian cancer at age 13. She was always sad and played the victim card, not knowing how to fit in. Danielle dealt with suicidal thoughts and had a terrible time asking for help. In having a conversation with Danielle, she shared: How her husband got sober The challenges with getting a sponsor How her misery got her sober The steps she took to get women's meetings in prisons Her service work This is a powerful story of a woman successfully navigating recovery. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 26, 2022
Send us a text Our original intent with this episode was to talk about how we deal with active alcoholics, while now in recovery. While soliciting some questions on Instagram, Danielle reached out with an issue she is having at her home group. There is an active alcoholic who comes into the meeting and is disruptive. This happens regularly. She wanted some help on what to do in this situation. If you attend 12 step meetings, this could be an issue that has come up. If not, it may in the future and John, Steve and Matt talk about their experience and how best to handle the situation. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 19, 2022
Send us a text When we were drinking, alcohol was our solution. It was not just our problem. Once we got sober, we had to find a solution to life's problems since our old best friend was taken away. The next level of sobriety is not just being dry, but to have control of how you feel. In this episode, John, Steve and Matt talk emotional sobriety and what it means to them: Being ok feeling the emotion, but not having to lash out and having control The place the 12 steps play Prayer and how a higher power can help Letting go and how it's hard Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 12, 2022
Send us a text Eric found him self on the kitchen floor, drunk and getting sick. It was a low place for him and took another two weeks before he found his way to a rehab. He ended up in the hospital with blood clots and was lucky to be alive. Looking around, he realized they saw him as just another drunk and he accepted it too. He was just another drunk. Against all odds, Eric found a way to stay sober through the help of his 12 step program. In this episode: Eric talked about his faith, the role prayer takes in his life and how praying has helped him overcome resentments Posting a video each day, for a year, reading from the 24 hour book and how it helped someone close to him Driving a big star from the airport, having to make the first stop, a run to the liquor store Eric's story is inspiring and we think you'll find so much to identify with. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, April 05, 2022
Send us a text Howard’s MO early in AA was to come late, leave early and if anyone said anything he didn’t like, he’d just get up and leave. Howard’s soulful belief was that AA did not work and he was going to prove it. Just when Howard was about to give up and drink, the fellowship grabbed him and as he headed out the door, asked, “Have you thought of trying it our way?” That day changed everything for Howard and has has not had a drink since. Howard L has been sober since January 1, 1988. In this podcast Howard discusses: How his first pass through the fourth step scared him and how he got through it with the help of a sponsor What what inaction caused Howard’s sponsee’s to fail How do determine what an actual harm is The expectations on amends What got him into podcasting What the Traditions say and don’t say about anonymity That he believes we are spiritual beings having a human experience Howard L is the host of two podcasts, AA Recovery Interviews and The Big Book Podcast. You can find them wherever you get your podcasts or: https://recoveryinterviews.com/ https://www.bigbookpodcast.com/ Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 29, 2022
Send us a text Mr Know it all It's a common refrain for not only the active alcoholic, but for some of us in recovery. We overcompensate for our insecurities by puffing out our chests so you won't see our insides. There are lots of people who are egomaniacs. We in recovery are fortunate enough to have a program of action that walks us through how to get this under control. It's one of the reasons we have a higher power in our lives, to remind us we are not God and that the more normal and average we are, the better we move through life. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 22, 2022
Send us a text Resentments are a killer of alcoholics. When we have a resentment, we are replaying an old memory that may or may not be accurate. Getting sober means finding a way to work through those emotions and the faulty way we used to perceive them. In recovery, we have to find a way to handle the bad stuff that comes our way and do it in a way that is healthy and does not cause us to drink. You can’t be a victim to your circumstances. https://www.amazon.com/Never-Enough-Neuroscience-Experience-Addiction/dp/0385542844 Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 08, 2022
Send us a text Everything I ever wanted to know when I got in my 12 program, I learned from my sponsor. The greatest gift to your own sobriety you could ever give yourself, is reaching out the helping hand to someone else sick and suffering. They may not stay sober, but you sure will. In this episode, John, Matt and Steve talk about Sponsorship. That first meeting can be scary and you can be paralyzed with fear. Where do I sit? What do I say to the other people at the meeting? I'm new. Am I allowed to get coffee? When do I raise my hand? These might sound like silly questions, but I'm sure you were upside down at your first meeting. Is AA not your thing? Sponsorship is something you can carry over. If you are experienced in recovery, you can always lend a hand to someone new and guide them. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, March 01, 2022
Send us a text When Mike C was drinking, he always told himself, if it got that bad, he’d be able to stop. When it did get that bad, Mike found he could not. On the surface, Mike's life was what you’d normally would say was the envy of everyone, but he felt was dead inside. Mike was fortunate to have someone come into his life and told him he did not have to feel this way and there was a life beyond drinking. Mike stayed connected to the program, shared the message with others and had good sobriety for five years. And then he took back control, dialed back his meetings and the misery crept back in. Though Mike did not relapse, he did have to find ways to re-engage with his program. Have you ever felt bored with recovery? Start to feel that after a period of sobriety, meetings and the things you did to get sober, started to feel stale? Mike shares a cautionary tale that may help you if you feel this way. Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 22, 2022
Send us a text Mark S from the Recovered Cast Podcast at https://recoveredcast.com/ is the sponsor of this episode. Mark bought us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberfriendspod . Matt used this episode to ask for help from his Sober Friends John I and Steve C. Matt has a few things going on in his life: Burnout Struggles with his higher power Through the episode, Matt discovered, these issues go together, along with the character defect of perfectionism. He felt everyone else has a strong relationship with a higher power and he does not. For this episode, Matt, John and Steve discussed the finding of God, or however you chose to call this Spirit of the Universe, is a journey that takes effort and practice. There is no destination. Matt also is dealing with burnout. He has a day job in addition to the podcast and is having a tough time balancing work, family and the show. The boys chimed in with advice that will help the newcomer along with anyone else in the journey of sobriety. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 15, 2022
Send us a text Step 12 says, having had a spiritual awaking as a result of these steps, we carried the message to the alcoholic still suffering and practice these principles in all of our affairs. Wait, I thought this was about stopping drinking? So I have to use these principles in my life outside of drinking? I'm not sure I signed up for that. What we've learned through the steps is our daily living. Drinking was the solution to the root cause. Applying the principles we found in recovery is not a band aid, it's the solution to the root cause so we don't have to drink anymore. It can be hard to give yourself over to a new way of living that will make the drink an unnecessary part of your life. Join John, Steve and Matt as they talk about how they make the 12 steps the thing that improves their life, daily. Did you notice the new name? We are now Sober Friends. We just wanted to share this message to as many people as possible and the "right" name makes it more searchable. It's the same great sober talk as before. Find at https://soberfriendspod.com . Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soberfriendspod Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 08, 2022
Send us a text I'm not drinking anymore! I'm sober! Well, not so fast. John, Steve and Matt tell their own tales of what sobriety means to them and how it differs from just being, "dry." For us, the feeling of being dry, is just the removal of alcohol with no treatment in place to become sober. Dry means that our behaviors have not changed. We continue to have the same character defects that caused drinking in the first place. We become a drunk that's just dry. Being sober is something totally different and in many ways, the absence of alcohol is only plays a minor part. Everything in your life changes and you work on your own personal issues. We go in detail on the difference and how to make a great sober life. Did you notice the new name? We are now Sober Friends. We just wanted to share this message to as many people as possible and the "right" name makes it more searchable. It's the same great sober talk as before. Find at https://soberfriendspod.com . Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soberfriendspod Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, February 01, 2022
Send us a text At 7 years old, Tanya's mum gave her a small glass of wine and told her to sip it. Of course, this little girl gave it a chug. Tanya's grand mother said, "this one is going to be a drinker." Little did Grandma know that Tanya would attend her first AA meeting at the age of 18. Tanya has been sober since January 11, 2008. Tanya's first meeting was in a cathedral in Liverpool, England. She was 18 years old, petrified and in desperate need of a shower. In this episode, Tanya discusses how her alcoholism picked up at 16. She talks about leaving home as a teen and bouncing between a shelter and school each day. She got sober for real at age 19. Tanya's turning point was meeting Young Martin, who shared a story she could finally relate to. There is so much to Tanya's story we will have her back in the future to tell more! You will really love this one, it's an instant classic. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 25, 2022
Send us a text Gill Tietz picked up her first drink later than most. Bullied in school, she avoided social gatherings and focused on academics. But after starting Graduate School, she decided to live a little, experiencing love at first sight with alcohol. A Biologist by trade, Gill talks about getting bullied as a kid and isolating from others through the end of college. Gill got into drinking in Graduate School and her affair with the bottle took off. Though she mentioned that biologists and chemists have the reputation as heavy drinkers, she took it to an extreme, with thoughts of self harm being one of the reasons she quit. As a biologist, we asked Gill about The Doctor's Opinion by Dr. Silkworth in the Big Book of AA. Dr.Silkworth discusses "the allergy" which causes the phenomenon of craving. Gill had some unexpected opinions on the subject. Gill's story shows that alcohol abuse and the mechanics internally don't care about education, gender and status in life. With this disease, we are all the same. Please support Gill's podcast, Sober Powered at https://www.soberpowered.com/ or where ever you get your podcasts. You can find her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sober.powered/ and on YouTube at by clicking Here . Did you notice the new name? We are now Sober Friends. We just wanted to share this message to as many people as possible and the "right" name makes it more searchable. It's the same great sober talk as before. Find at https://soberfriendspod.com . Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soberfriendspod Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 18, 2022
Send us a text How is Dry January going for you? With us getting closer to the end of the month, it's time to take stock. Have you made it this far? Or did you have a drink. If so, did you get back on the wagon? These three alcoholics are just really hearing about Dry January and we dug in to learn more. Matt downloaded the app and took the alcohol use quiz. Based on his days drinking, how did he score? From our perspective, we talked about other tools to make Dry January a success How technology, like apps and social media changed the game Where Dry January started and how it's a trademarked name We talk about how, when AA started, alcohol abuse treatment was focused on the "low bottom drunk." With things like Dry January and the use of technology to track and motivate, there is now the chance to "catch" a problem before it gets too bad. Did you notice the new name? We are now Sober Friends. We just wanted to share this message to as many people as possible and the "right" name makes it more searchable. It's the same great sober talk as before. Find at https://soberfriendspod.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soberfriendspod Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 11, 2022
Send us a text Keeping up your physical health by exercising and eating right is difficult under the best of circumstances. Just the act of stopping drinking or drugging and addressing root causes of substance abuse can be overwhelming, let alone starting the process of getting physically fit. Last week, we discussed how important maintaining your physical health was important. This week, we show you how to do it, with the help of our guest. We went to an expert to help us make this task manageable and invited fitness blogger Lindsay Perisco of https://huntfiber.com/ . Lindsay is a mother of 3 young children, a wife and full time personal trainer. With all that going on, she has found time to explore her passion, the outdoors and hunting. In this episode, Lindsay's key takeaways are: Find a reason to stay fit. For her, if she wants to hunt, she needs to exercise the right way to keep up Make a plan and stick to it, even when you don't want to 90% of being physically fit is not the exercise. It's the right food. That takes preparation Don't expect 100% adherence. Plan for slip ups. All or nothing won't work! Plan for treats. There are no good carbs/bad carbs or fats. There is the right mix. With all those New Year's resolutions, we hope bringing in an expert on the subject will help you find the right motivation. You can also find Lindsay Persico on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/huntfiber/ Did you notice the new name? We are now Sober Friends. We just wanted to share this message to as many people as possible and the "right" name makes it more searchable. It's the same great sober talk as before. Find at https://soberfriendspod.com . Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soberfriendspod Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, January 04, 2022
Send us a text Your physical and mental health take a beating during active addiction. Recovery is a three legged stool of mental, spiritual and physical recovery. Eating healthy, exercising and seeing a physician on a regular basis is part of staying sober and can easily be neglected. Though we find recovery, we always have an alcoholic mind and that "obsession," can come out in other ways, like an addiction to working out and a compulsion to only eat the right foods. Unchecked and without balance, this "addiction" can derail the reason we started this journey in the first place. Getting sober. Matt, Steve and John talk about their focus on physical recovery. Matt talks about getting on his spin bike again and John and Steve talk about their obsessive hikes. They also discuss those who took the physical too far, and ended up getting drunk. Text or leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Trailer · Tue, January 04, 2022
Send us a text Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 28, 2021
Send us a text Jeff was the good brother, so his sibling took the blame. Jeff got caught drinking by his wife, so now he could drink in the open Jeff's story changed when he was stopped, drunk at a DUI checkpoint, talking himself out of trouble by saying he was going to a meeting and being given directions by the officer. He's been sober since. Jeff recently celebrated 10 years of sobriety and he talks to Steve and Matt about his path to alcoholism and is journey to recovery. In this episode, Jeff talks about: Being the good brother, and filling the liquor bottles with water Becoming a full time student to avoid responsibility Becoming a therapist to help others, once sober Text or leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 21, 2021
Send us a text Gabe got sober 24 years old but lived through a nightmare to get there. Gabe shares growing up in an alcoholic family with an abusive family and he fell into addiction too. He then shares how a "Founder's Day" in Akron, Ohio changed everything and got him out of his shell. Gabe shares how he's sponsored scores of alcoholics and after once turning his back on God, talks about how he received his ordination license to marry one of his sponsees. Text or leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 14, 2021
Send us a text This is one of the most powerful conversations about spirituality we've ever had. Buddy chats with Matt J and Steve C about Taoism, his long path to sobriety, Eastern Spirituality, and overcoming personal tragedy and remaining sober. He is the author of the book, Powerless But Not Helpless: A Meditation Book of 81 Verses from the Tao Te Ching that can help you live an alcohol free life and find freedom from any addictive behavior. You can purchase Buddy's book on Amazon or at https://buddyc.org/ Text or leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, December 07, 2021
Send us a text Sobriety during the holidays, especially when new can be overwhelming. "How can I get sober with Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years coming? I'll miss all the fun!" "How can I be sober at a work party? Everyone will pester me!" There are some simple answers to these questions and John and Matt discuss everything from what to say when you are not drinking to making a quick escape if you need to, Leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 30, 2021
Send us a text Kelly of East Coast Sober Squad is the guest on this week's show. She talks her party girl life of drinking and how it masked the real her. Kelly then discussed getting sober, how she's helped others in the Instagram Sober Community and the humble beginnings of East Coast Sober Squad, a woman's virtual group using Slack and Zoom to connect and stay sober. You can find East Coast Sober Squad at https://eastcoastsobersquad.com/ Find Kelly on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kelz_is_sober/ Find East Coast Sober Squad on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/eastcoastsobersquad/ Leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 23, 2021
Send us a text Emily B Part 2 We complete our interview of Emily B this week. On this episode, Emily talks about the challenges of women in sobriety, her view of spirituality and a new creative product she's doing with her daughter. Leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Photo, courtesy of Emily B. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 16, 2021
Send us a text You Are Not Alone - A Recovery Podcast is 1 Year Old! Thank you for your support! Emily B is a woman in long term sobriety. Emily got sober in 1985 at the age of 18 when she was faced with a choice of going to AA or going to jail. In part one of two, she talks about her relationship with previous guest Tim G, how she got sober and what she had done to stay sober. Leave a comment for the show at (860) 281-2303. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Photo, courtesy of Emily B. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 09, 2021
Send us a text November is gratitude month in 12 step groups. It can be easy to think about resentments and guilt over past actions, but it's so important to be grateful for all you have and all that's changed in life because you put down the bottle. John I and Steve C join the show to talk about their gratitude lists. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, November 02, 2021
Send us a text hu·mil·i·ty /(h)yo͞oˈmilədē/ noun a modest or low view of one's own importance; humbleness. "he needs the humility to accept that their way may be better" John I wanted this episode because he felt he was being a bit too pompous and arrogant in his new job, but in doing some self inventory, Steve C and Matt J also needed this one too. In this podcast, we talk about humility, what being humble means, the dangers of arrogance and self and the defects of this character defect that cause us to drink. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 26, 2021
Send us a text Getting sober doesn't mean you won't face challenges in your life. Getting sober means you don't have to drink when you have these challenges. The challenges faced in this podcast, are admittedly Cadillac ones. Both Steve C and Matt J were given career opportunities. With both, it involved a lot more money and responsibility. Just because someone gets more money and a better title, does not mean it is the right fit. Steve, Matt and John I talk about making big decisions when in recovery, how they did it and how they got to the best decision for them. Regardless of your situation, identify, don't compare. We hope to help you in your own journey. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 19, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'How can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 10 - Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the AA name ought never be drawn into public controversy Tradition 11 - Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and films. Tradition 12 - Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles above personalities. John I and Steve C join to talk about the guardrails that help AA operate. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 12, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'How can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 8 - Alcoholics Anonymous should remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers. Tradition 9 - A.A., as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve. John I and Steve C join to talk about the guardrails that help AA operate. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, October 05, 2021
Send us a text Kelly Giannuzzi is a mom of three boys who "seemed" to have it all together. Great husband, beautiful house and amazing kids. She was the the picture of the American Dream. What you didn't see was that she was silently battling postpartum depression, crippled by anxiety and relied far too heavily on "mommy juice." In January 2021, she reached her bottom and decided to stop drinking. She has not picked up since. Kelly's path to sobriety might be different than yours. She did not find recovery in the rooms of 12 step programs but has unknowingly followed along with some of the steps. No one has a monopoly and it was important to share as many different kinds of stories for you to identify with. Join Matt J, Steve C, John I and Kelly for this inspiring story. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 28, 2021
Send us a text Part 2 of our conversation with Tim G. Like almost everything Tim has done, it's happened kicking and screaming. That includes his outdoor meeting, painting and gardening. But once he's done it, he felt better. We all can identify. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Cover artwork courtesy of Tim G. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 21, 2021
Send us a text John I, Steve C and I have talked about our friend in recovery Tim G from time to time on this show. Tim has been resistant to come on, but we wore him down. Lots of things in his program has worn Tim down and we talk about the long list of things Tim never wanted to do and then when he did them, how his program got better. In the first of two parts, Tim shares his story, how he first got sober, his relapse and his second chance at recovery. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Cover artwork courtesy of Tim G. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 14, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'How can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 6: Our groups ought never endorse, finance or lend our name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, and prestige divert us from our primary purpose. Tradition 7: Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions. John I and Steve C join to talk about the guardrails that help AA operate. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, September 07, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'How can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 4 states, "Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or AA as a whole." Tradition 5 states, "Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry its message to the alcoholic who still suffers." John I and Steve C join to talk about the guardrails that help AA operate. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 31, 2021
Send us a text 12 Step groups have a tradition around their public relations policy, which is attraction rather than promotion. But what does that exactly mean? John I steps in to have a discussion of this topic. Does it mean you never talk about AA or other 12 step programs, even in front of someone clearly sick and suffering? Should you never post about the program on social media? Does this podcast violate this principle? Or is there more nuance to this? We invite you to join the discussion at https://notalonerecovery.com/ You can reach the show on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/notalonepod/ Twitter at https://twitter.com/NotAlonePodcast Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Notalonerecovery Or email the show at notalonerecovery@gmail.com Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 24, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'How can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 2 states, "For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority—a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern." Tradition 3 states, "The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking." John I and Steve C join to talk about what these traditions mean to them, why they are important and all they fun they have at their meetings. Please help support the show by giving it a review and rating in Apple Podcasts. Find Recovery Links, access to social media and email at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Please share with friends and family. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 17, 2021
Send us a text Tyler thought is was normal to get drunk growing up. It was what everyone in town did at his age. Then his parents got divorced and the drinking escalated. But he already had a strong, spiritual faith and it ended up being his lifeline. Tyler is a childhood friend of my wife. He heard about this podcast from her on Facebook and wanted to talk about his life in sobriety. In this episode, Tyler discusses is upbringing in a wealthy town, the break up of his parent's marriage and how alcohol entered his life. Tyler grew up with a strong spiritual background, something that continues to this day. He got sober at 19 and Tyler tells of his story of being in the Institute of Living and how he was able to continue his recovery in college and beyond. Please subscribe, download and give a rating on Apple Podcasts. Share the podcast with someone you think this podcast will help. Let's help one more sick and suffering alcoholic. Check out our website at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 10, 2021
Send us a text The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are the framework for how the groups work. According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, "The '12 Traditions' of Alcoholics Anonymous are, we A.A.'s believe, the best answers to that our experience has yet given to those ever-urgent questions, 'Ho can A.A. best function?' and, 'How can A.A. best stay whole and so survive?'" As alcoholics, our person ambition and "good intentions," could turn this fellowship away from it's primary purpose, which is for us to stay sober. Tradition 1 states, "Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon A.A. unity." John I and Steve C, two men with experience in AA, are here to give their interpretation of Tradition 1 and why it's so important. Please subscribe and download this podcast if you liked it. Give it a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with someone who could benefit! You can find the podcast at https://notalonerecovery.com/ Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, August 03, 2021
Send us a text Nate Kelly is the host of the Sobriety Diaries Podcast on Instagram and wherever you get your podcasts. He is also an alcoholic. I was fascinated by his story in listening to his show and he was gracious enough to join us. In this episode, Nate talks about his story, his experience with drinking, his alcoholic stroke in his 30's that was not enough to stop drinking, his recovery and how he's been in service to those in recovery. This is an inspiring story you will love. You can find Nate at https://www.thesobrietydiaries.com/ . Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 27, 2021
Send us a text When you are new to sobriety, you may think life is now just sitting in church basements. Early on, you'll see a lot of church basements, but as you grow in your new sobriety, the opportunity to enjoy your life presents itself. John I and Steve C join in to talk about the debt of gratitude they owe to their 12 step program and how life has become better. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
Tue, July 20, 2021
Send us a text Many alcoholics have had to deal with the effects of isolation both in active addition and after. Especially during COVID-19, when you have to social distance, it's easy to hide away and isolate from everyone in the name of good health. It's easy to stay home and be comfortable isolating in general and make excuses to not go to meetings or call people in the program. Matt J, John I and Steve C talked about their own issues with isolation and the trap it can ensnare us in. Support the show 📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch , our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.
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